Karen J. Thistle

Karen J. Thistle, age 80, of Hastings, formerly of Cottage Grove, MN passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 29, 2023. Preceded in death by her parents, Hugo and Vera Rohner, uncle Anton Rohner and many other relatives and friends. 

Karen was born April 10, 1942 and grew up in Olivia MN graduating from Olivia High School in 1960. She then moved to the Twin Cities and graduated from MN School of Business in Minneapolis, MN in 1961. Karen married James L. Thistle in 1963 and had three children then later divorced in 1981. 

Karen raised her three children in Cottage Grove, MN and worked as a computer analyst at various insurance companies. Karen enjoyed reading books & listening to audio books, scrapbooking pictures of the many family memories, and most of all spending time with her grandchildren. She enjoyed having them visit with sleepovers, watching Harry Potter movies, and swimming in the pool. She also loved attending the grandchildren’s activities and sporting events. Karen was a loving and caring person and will be greatly missed. 

Karen is survived by her children, James Thistle, Sue (Bob) Monjeau and Jeffrey Thistle along with grandchildren Jacob Thistle, Shane Monjeau, Josh Monjeau, Molly Thistle, Jessie Thistle and Stacy Monjeau. Karen’s family would like to thank Oakridge Assisted Living/Memory Care in Hastings, Regina Hospital in Hastings and Allina Hospice for the care they provided our beloved mother/grandmother. 

Celebration of Life 11-1 PM, Saturday, April 8, 2023 at Kok Funeral Home, 7676 80^th St. S., Cottage Grove, MN 55016. Everyone is welcome to stay for food and fellowship beginning at 1 PM.

Interment at Olivia Cemetery, Olivia, MN at a later date.