Karen Kothenbeutel

Karen I. Kothenbeutel, 78, of Rochester, MN died Saturday, March 30, 2019 at Cottagewood Senior Communities. Karen Ihla Simso was born September 20, 1940 to Iver and Ester (Hansen) Simso in Rochester, MN. She graduated from Rochester High School. On November 24, 1957 she married Robert Kothenbeutel in Rochester. She worked at Assisi heights caring for handicap children in the Day Activity Center. She also had her own in-home daycare, drove a school bus and helped out at the dental offices in Valhalla Dental Building. After her retirement her and her husband moved to Hayward, WI and wintered in San Rayburn, TX. In 2005 they returned to Rochester. Karen was a care giver her entire life and will be missed by many. She was a crafty person and especially enjoyed painting. She liked to cook and golf, but especially liked to entertain friends and spend time with her family and grandchildren. Karen is survived by three sons, Mike (Janet) Kothenbeutel of Rochester, Tom (Shari) Kothenbeutel of Zumbrota, MN and John (Lee Ann) Kothenbeutel of Sauk Rapids, MN, seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Robert in 2015; and a sister, June Weinrich. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 4, 2019 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Oakwood East Cemetery. Karen's family would like to thank all of our lifelong friends for their kindness and support through these difficult times. Memorials are suggested to Mayo Clinic for Parkinson's Research, or Seasons Hospice. To leave a special memory or condolence please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester, MN 55901 (507) 289-3600