A Celebration of Life Visitation to honor the life and legacy of Karen Hodenefield will be held Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lakefield from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Karen Louise Hodnefield was born on May 8, 1959, in Lakefield, Minnesota, to Joseph T. and Agnes M. (Sydnes) Hodnefield. She was raised in Lakefield and graduated from Lakefield High School with the Class of 1977. Following high school, Karen continued her education at Jackson Vocational-Technical School, Worthington Community College, Augustana College in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Arizona State University, where she explored interests in architectural programs and religious studies.

Karen devoted her life to caring for others in both her work and daily life. She worked as a paraprofessional with Jackson County Central Schools from September 2017 until her passing, where she tried to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the students she supported. Over the years, she also held positions at Home Depot, Great Plains Lumber in Lakefield, Hardee's in Worthington, and was an EMT in Worthington. In addition, Karen shared her creative eye through BJ Photography, capturing weddings and community events, including the local parade, preserving special moments for many.

Music was one of Karen's greatest joys. She loved to sing and play guitar, drums, and bells, and she shared her talents as a member of praise bands both in Arizona and in Lakefield. Her faith was an important part of her life and guided her generous and compassionate spirit.

Karen will be remembered for her kind heart and her willingness to help anyone in need. She was deeply devoted to her family and was a wonderful sister and aunt, always offering love, encouragement, and support. She found joy in simple pleasures—working on do-it-yourself projects, quilting, solving puzzles, and traveling whenever she had the opportunity.

On Thursday, April 2, 2026, Karen passed away at her home in Lakefield.

Left to cherish her memory are her sisters, Carol (Bob) Horn of Lakefield, Pat Kruse of Tempe, AZ, Juliann (Randy) Roggow of Rochester, and Gail (Chuck) Palmer of Phoenix, AZ; as well as her beloved nieces and nephews, cherished pets, and many relatives and friends.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Agnes; and sister, Janice Kittleson.

Karen's life was a reflection of quiet generosity, creativity, and faith, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.