Cynthia 'Cindy' Lu Karls

Cynthia Lu (Drake) Karls, 51, of Rochester, was born on December 28, 1963 in Spencer, IA to Robert and Norma (Hansen) Drake. Cindy's strong will, wit, and love of life soon won over the hearts of her three other siblings. She became the apple of everyone's eyes, especially her grandma Lulu, whom she was named after. Both Lulus were determined women and changed the lives of those around them. Cindy was raised in Spencer, Iowa where she received her education, graduating from Spencer High School. Later she attended South Dakota State University, where she received her bachelor degree in nursing. Like her father being sensitive to others needs and always wanting the best for others made Cindy a natural at being a nurse. Her 26 years nursing career was at Methodist Hospital and Mayo Clinic. This is where she met the love of her life, Patrick Karls. Patrick and Cindy married on May 25, 1996. To this union were born the two other loves of her life, Benjamin and Emma. You would find Cindy, too nervous to watch, pacing the floor, helping encourage her son to victory at his sporting events. Emma took to acting on stage where her mother watched with great pride. On April 21, 2015, Cindy was recognized by Mayo Clinic for her dedication to nursing and her patients by being presented a Karis Award. Cindy enjoyed doing crafts, giggling, flowers, plants, puns, spending time with family and the Clay County Fair. Cindy loved to go antiquing, especially going to Gold Rush Days. She loved decorating for the seasons so all could enjoy her special skills. Spending time on Pinterest gave Cindy the bug of crafting, taking after her mother and grandmother. Hours were spent creating keepsakes to bless others. Two of her greatest passions were running and her love for her Lord. She rededicated her life to serving her Lord by water baptism on November 30, 2013. Cindy felt running was her way to relax and enjoy life during her journey. She ran many 5k's, 10k's, and half-marathons (Disney Princess and Women Rock). Cindy participated in many 5k runs to help support local charities, foundations (Hugs from Hunter) and races to help support other friends who were in their own journey with cancer. Cindy always looked forward to the annual Join the Journey 10 mile walk on every 3rd weekend in September. Sometimes telling her oncologist, I'm doing this walk no matter what my counts are! Cindy will forever miss her running buddies, Shannon and Peggy. Cindy kept running despite the many challenges she faced. Cindy ran her final perfect race into the arms and saving grace of her Lord and Savior on Sunday, April 26, 2015. Cindy was preceded in death by her father in 2013 and by her grandparents. She is survived by her husband, Patrick Karls; a son, Benjamin; a daughter, Emma; mother, Norma Drake of Spencer, IA; brothers, Michael and his wife Ann of Rochester, MI, Dennis and his wife Janice of Fort Collins, CO; sister, Connie Drake of Spencer, IA; and a host of other family and friends. Cindy had a true encouraging spirit that was contagious to everyone she met. It was an honor to be included in her journey through life. Her strength and determination were an inspiration to all. Her legacy includes all the people's lives she touched. The family wishes to thank all the friends, family and colleagues who have been so supportive over the last 6 years of Cindy's journey. We would also like to thank the staff of Seasons Hospice, Hospice House, the nurses of Gonda 10 East, Dr. Steven Robinson, Dr. Marvin Vaughan and Dr. Jose Villasboas. A celebration of Cindy's life will be held 11: 00 AM Wednesday, April 29, 2015 at Christ Community Church, 4400 55th St. NW, Rochester. Visitation will be held 4:00-7:00 PM Tuesday, April 28, 2015 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester and one hour prior to the service at the church. Pastor Ken White and Pastor Robb Ammermann will be officiating with interment at Oakwood East Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Seasons Hospice, 1696 Greenview Dr. SW, Rochester, MN 55902 or to Join the Journey, 1530 Greenview Dr. SW, Rochester, MN 55902. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com