Karen Tesch

Karen M. Tesch, age 68, of Faribault, MN, and former long time resident of Dallas, TX, died at her home on May 18, 2016 surrounded by her friends following an extended illness.

A memorial service celebrating the life of Karen will be held on Saturday, June 25, 2016 at 10:30 a.m. at the Faribault Congregational United Church of Christ chapel.

Karen Marie Tesch, the daughter of Sylvan and Dorothy (Apitz) Tesch was born February 27, 1948 in St. Peter, MN. As a child she grew up on a farm near Henderson, MN. Her father raised heifers and Karen became attached to the cows having one as a long time pet. After high school Karen attended the Methodist Hospital Nursing program after which enlisting in the Air Force for five years, serving at home and abroad. She advanced her nursing degree at North Texas State preparing her for a 33-year civilian career cut short by a stroke in 2009. After returning to Minnesota in 2000 she enjoyed rides in the country with her sister Sharon checking out the crops and livestock as well as collecting and planting a large collection of assorted hostas. Traveling to various U.S. locations throughout the years for the USS Sibley reunion was a highlight of her Sibley County heritage. Her love of animals continued in later life when she collected figurines and glassware, which she enjoyed giving to her friends and relatives. Even though her motor skills were diminished by a stroke Karen re-mastered her love of knitting spending many hours at the Nook and Cranny knitting, greeting customers and socializing. Walking to the Central Park farmer's market was another activity she conquered as well as a two-week trip to Mexico. Karen was involved in her church and a member of the bell choir.

She is survived by relatives from the Henderson area and friends of Faribault.

She was preceded in death by her parents and sister.