Karen Mae Nelson, 75, of Owatonna, died September 6, 2024, at Owatonna Hospital.

Karen was born October 9, 1948, in Albert Lea, to the late Orville and Darleen Larson Fischer. She grew up on the family farm in Alden, Minnesota. After graduating from high school, she went to Waldorf College and Winona earning her Elementary Education Degree. Years later she received her Masters from the U. of M. Karen and Ralph were united in marriage on July 18, 1970 at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Owatonna. Karen spent most of her life in the education system, having taught third grade for 38 years at Blooming Prairie Elementary School. Karen's family was the light of her life. She spent many hours sitting on benches watching sports, watching marching bands parades or anything else her family may have been participating in. The joys of the holidays was Karen's favorite time. She enjoyed a good laugh and making those around her laugh even more with her jokes.

She is survived by her husband of 54 years of marriage, Ralph A. Nelson; children, Bruce Nelson of Owatonna and Jill Lantsberger of Owatonna; grandchildren, Courtney (Zach) , Parker, Amber, Connor (Kyleigh) and Hannah; one brother, Gary (Diane) Fischer. Also survived by nieces, nephews and in-laws.

Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by a great granddaughter.

Private services for Karen will be held at the convenience of the family at a later date.