Kirsten Sverdrup

Kirsten Sverdrup, 63, of Costa Mesa, passed away on Saturday, August 11, 2012. Kirsten came into this world three weeks early and also departed from this world too early. After a valiant battle, Kirsten passed away peacefully in her home with good friends at her bedside and the love of her family and friends from Norway in her heart.
Born in Lofoten, Norway, Kirsten arrived three hours before her unexpected twin brother, Knut. They grew up in Reine, a small island well known the world over for its beauty and surrounding majestic mountain range. The family moved to Oslo, Norway, for Kirsten and Knut to continue with their education.
Kirsten received her Physical Therapy Degree in Scotland and returned to Norway to work. In 1977 Kirsten was employed as a physical therapist on a cruise ship for 18 months that enhanced her desire to travel, taking her to many fascinating places.
Arriving in the United States in 1983, Kirsten settled in Newport Beach, California. She was employed at Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian for 24 years where she mentored many physical therapists. Wanting to do more to help her patients, Kirsten opened her own physical therapy private practice, Stand Tall Physical Therapy, in 2007. She was the first physical therapist on the West Coast to use The RedCord, a sling suspension technique developed in Norway.
Kirsten married West Robinson on March 7, 1987. Together they traveled, enjoyed camping, and spending time with West’s children and their grandchildren. After West passed away, Kirsten continued to travel and enjoyed entertaining Norwegian style in her home that she was always upgrading.
Kirsten was self-reliant and independent. She was a woman of great strength and keen intellect. Kirsten was a wonderful friend, mentor and physical therapist who helped many people in the community. She had the gift and ability to make a positive impact on people’s lives. Although we all mourn Kirsten’s passing and will miss her contagious smile, she lived fully and left graciously. Kirsten appreciated the medical attention she received from the numerous health care professionals and caregivers involved in her care.
Kirsten is survived by her twin brother, Knut; her nephew, Nikolai; many cousins in Europe; stepsons, Scott and Ritch and three grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lilli and Johan and her loving husband, West.
A celebration of Kirsten’s life will be held on Saturday, September 15 at noon at The Norwegian Seamen’s Church, 1035 South Beacon Street, San Pedro.
Donations in Kirsten’s name can be made to the following: Orange County SPCA to PAWS-Pet Associated Therapy at www.orangecountyspca.org or Seasons Hospice at www.seasonsfoundation.org.
Sign Kirsten’s guest book at www.pacificviewcalifornia.com.