Eagan Softball coach Nikki Villelli died due to an undisclosed reason on Friday.
Villelli was a beloved coach and member of the Eagan Softball and baseball community who dedicated many years to training young athletes.
Highlights
- Niki Villelli, a beloved softball coach and member of the baseball community, passed away on Friday, February 7, 2025.
- Niki was born to her father, Joseph T. Villelli, who passed away on February 25, 2011.
- She married James Bjorkstrand and had two children: Jacob and Joey Bjorkstrand.
At Eagan Softball, she served as a coach along with Chris Parnell, James Norman, and Leah Frenning.
She dedicated countless hours to organizing practices, developing game strategies, and mentoring players.
Niki was born to her father, Joesph T. Villelli, and grew up with her sisters, Linnea Downey and Stacy Villelli.
Linnea is married to Brian Downey, while Stacy is married to David Jewison.
Niki also shared a strong bond with her grandfather, Anthony, and grandmother, Elinor Villelli.
Sadly, her father, Joseph, a retired 30-plus-year employee at the FORD plant, passed away on February 25, 2011, at 59.
The memorial service was held on Thursday, March 3, 2011, at 5 pm in St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 12508 Lynn Ave., Savage, with a gathering of family and friends one hour before service.
Softball Coach Nikki Villelli Passed Away At The Age Of 38
Nikki Villelli, born on July 11, 1986, sadly died on Friday, February 7, 2025, at 38. However, her exact cause of death has not been revealed yet.
Niki’s sister, Linnea Villelli, officially announced the news on February 8, 2025, at 5:14 am through her Facebook. She wrote,
My heart is broken. I have no words. I love you baby sis Niki Villelli. 7.11.86 —— 2.7.25
Linnea Villelli
Following the news, close ones and relatives rushed into the comment section to pour their heartfelt condolence to Niki and her family. One user wrote,
My sincere condolences for your loss! My heart goes out to you and your family!
Bridget Hayes
Another user wrote,
I can not even believe i am reading this. I am so sorry for you and your families loss. We were just chatting a few months ago about softball and she wanted to get the kids together to do some work out. She was always so willing to help out. My heart just breaks for you all. Sending you lots of love. I am here is you need anything.
Tanya Johnson
The Third user wrote,
I’m so sorry Linnea Villelli! I’m in shock and my heart hurts for you all! She was so amazing and such a good mom! Keep the good memories going! I’m here if you need anything! Prayers for strength during this difficult time!! Love you!
Laura Olson
Linnea has also organized a fundraising campaign on GoFundMe.
She mentioned that the donation raised will go towards funeral costs and medical bills and will help alleviate some of the financial burdens and support the family to focus on healing and cherishing the memories of Niki.
Around 167 people have already donated, and over $ 17,210 has been collected.
Eagan Baseball Association took to their official Facebook handle and sent heartfelt condolences to Niki’s family. They wrote,
Eagan Baseball sends its condolences to the family of Niki Villelli, a beloved coach and member of the Eagan Softball and Baseball community. Niki dedicated many years to young athletes. Her passion for softball was matched only by her love for her family, and she was especially proud of her children, Jacob and Joey Bjorkstrand. Jacob has been a member of our Eagan Baseball program for many years. Niki’s kindness, dedication, and positive energy will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Niki’s family during this difficult time. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the family.
Eagan Baseball Association
In addition, Eagan Softball also took to their Facebook and poured a small tribute to Niki by stating,
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Niki Villelli, a beloved coach and member of the Eagan Softball community. Niki dedicated many years to our young athletes, offering her knowledge of the game along with her unwavering support for the players she coached. Her passion for softball was matched only by her love for her family, and she was especially proud of her children, Jacob and Joey Bjorkstrand. Niki’s kindness, dedication, and positive energy will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Niki’s family during this difficult time.
Eagan Softball
Janel Hoekenga, a Fitzs Sand Volleyball League member, also paid tribute to Niki. He wrote,
Hi volleyball players. Niki and Jamie played in the top league on Tuesday nights for many years until life got too busy with their kids. Niki tragically passed away on Friday. She loved her kids more than anything and was always the first one to help others. She will be greatly missed. Please say a prayer for the family and consider helping Jamie. Every little bit will help. I’m really hoping the goal is far surpassed as I know the family will need it
Janel Hoekenga
Elise Williams-Mademann, fierce advocate and coach, shared the Eagan Baseball Association tribute post and wrote,
It saddens me to share this post. Over the past year the community’s of Eagan and Rosemount have lost to many mommas with kids Brendan’s age. Both cities have a special place in my heart and youth sports brings all sorts of connections and shared teams for our kids. Please add Niki’s family to your prayers this week. And prayers for the kids who are navigating this difficult time with their friends.
Elise Williams-Mademann
Niki Villelli Is Survived By Her Husband, James Bjorkstrand, And Two Children
Niki Villelli, a softball coach, married James Bjorkstrand. However, the exact date of their marriage has not been mentioned.
They played volleyball in the top league for many years until life got too busy with their kids.
Niki and James were blessed with their first child, Jacob, 17, in 2008. In 2011, they welcomed their second child, Joey, 14.
Jacob weighs 140 pounds, stands 5 feet 9 inches tall, and plays Boys’ Freshman football for Eagan High School as a cornerback wearing jersey no. 45.
On the other hand, Joey Bjorkstrand is a student at Eagan High School and will graduate in 2030.
Currently, they are mourning the tragic loss of their mother, Niki Villelli.
Additional Information
- Niki Villelli’s father, Joseph, grew up with his sisters, Toni Dysart, Denise Higgins, Elly Soukey, Shelly Carlson, and brother, Tony Villelli.
- Villelli earned an annual salary of around $46,517 as a Softball coach at Eagan High School.
- Her sister, Linnea Villelli, is a retired bartender and breast cancer survivor.
