Karen Fritze

Karen Marie Fritze, age 80 of Cottage Grove, passed away peacefully, with her family by her side on November 12, 2021.

Karen is survived by her husband, Wally; children, Sherrie (Pat) Fritze-Harris, Theresa (Dave) Fritze-Nelson, and Rob Fritze; grandchildren, Kellen (Joel) Parsons, Patrick Harris, Kylie Harris (Victor Camargo fiancé), Brenna Fritze, Calle Fritze, and Brandt Fritze; great grandchildren, Ayven and Kelvin; siblings, Mary Sue (Bruce) Stanke, Ken (Sherry) Hohenstein, Rick (Lee Ann) Hohenstein; sisters-in-law, Theresa Hohenstein, and Joanne Hohenstein; many nieces, nephews, and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Marvin and Kathleen; and brothers, Doc, Bill, and John.

Karen valued family the most; she was married 60 years to the love of her life. They had three children, six grand children, and two great grand children.  She loved dancing and spending time with friends in both Minnesota and Arizona

She had a passion for fishing which she got from her father and she passed along to her kids and grandchildren.

She was know for her many talents; including being an artist and cook - professional cake decorator, even attaining a patent for her cake stand design which she sold around the world. Her several signature recipes (popcorn, onion rings, cinnamon rolls, Pickles, Carrot Cake, Beet Pickles, Banana Bread, homemade french fries, pepper jelly, dilly beans)

In addition to her many talents, she was a generous caregiver.  She happily took on the tough responsibility of caring for several others in their final days

Her other passions included: Gardening, Canning, Sewing, Wine making, Volunteering for church, Gambling, and passing along her talents to others (4H, Giirl scouts, etc..)

Known for her infectious smile, her sense of humor, and her occasional (but effective) stink-eye, she was truly one of a kind. We are all going to miss you Karen and know how much you enjoyed hearing everyone saying grace prior to one of your fabulous meals.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 20, 2021 at Cottage Grove United Church of Christ (7008 Lamar Ave S, Cottage Grove, MN) at 11am. Visitation will begin at 9am. Burial to immediately follow the service at Cottage Grove Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.