Karen J. Hystad

Karen Jeanne Hystad, 79, of Dilworth, MN, passed away at home on December 18, 2016, under the care of her family and Hospice of the Red River Valley.

Karen was born November 25, 1937, in Mitchell, SD, and lovingly adopted by Everett and Celeste Tentinger Kuhl. She grew up in Mitchell, SD and then lived in Moorhead, MN for some time. From 1978 to 1992 she lived in Bismarck, ND, but moved back to the Fargo-Moorhead area in 1994. Karen obtained an associate degree from Brainerd Technical College in 1994.

Known for her giving heart, Karen spent countless hours serving her community by volunteering for the Salvation Army in both the thrift store and kitchen. She absolutely loved animals and would do anything to help animals in need. Her love for animals prompted her to also volunteer many hours of time at Jazzy and Mumbo’s Thrift Store in Dilworth. Over the years, she lovingly rescued countless cats, birds, and dogs and provided them with a safe home. Karen was also an active member of the VFW Women’s Auxiliary in Dilworth. She was “mom” or “grandma” to everyone she met, and she will be greatly missed.

Karen is survived by her daughters, Kimberly Hope, of Dilworth, Michelle John Anderson, of Hawley, and Kristina King, of Shorewood, MN; 9 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; her two sons, Mark and Michael Hystad, and her brother, Ronald Kuhl.