Obituary of Karen Suzanne Gustafson

Karen Suzanne Gustafson 09/05/1962 – 12/23/2023 Longtime North St. Paul resident and teacher. Karen Suzanne Gustafson, age 61 of Oakdale, MN, passed into the loving arms of Jesus surrounded by family on December 23, 2023 after a very short battle with cancer. Her faith in Jesus was central to her life. The second most important thing to Karen was family – siblings, nieces/nephews, and great nieces/ nephews. Karen made each family member feel important and loved and that she was their greatest fan. Karen was a high school English teacher, and she had a special place in her heart for senior citizens. She could often be found leading Bible studies, visiting, and transporting her seniors regularly. Karen was born in Minnesota and was the middle child of five siblings. Born between two boys, there are many stories of Karen trying to survive the brothers. Karen graduated from North St. Paul High School and received her teaching and English degree from Bethel College. She then earned an M.A. in English Language Learners. Karen has taught English throughout the world: Las Vegas, NV; North St. Paul and Winona, MN; Mongolia; Alaska; and finished her career at North St. Paul High School. Telling people about Jesus was a great joy for Karen. She went on many short and long-term mission trips combining her love of Jesus with her love of teaching. Highlights included Mongolia, Iraq, Poland, and Israel. In her spare time, Karen loved arts, photography, writing, and games. She avidly prayed for many people and often asked family members their highs and lows so she knew specifically how to pray for them. She enjoyed family vacations and get-togethers. An annual highlight was a Gustafson weekend retreat each summer. First Evangelical Free Church of Maplewood was also an integral part of her life – from birth to death. She loved spending time in God’s Word and praying. Karen is preceded in death by her parents, James and Rosemary Gustafson. She is survived by siblings Carol Gustafson, Dave (Nancy) Gustafson, Jon (Chris) Gustafson, and Jeanne (Scott) Leake. She is also survived by 15 nieces/nephews and 11 great nieces/nephews. Livestream Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LoE1QrSv-Qs