Karen Pirkl, 77, Blooming Prairie

Karen Ann Pirkl, age 77, of Blooming Prairie, passed away peacefully on Friday, Oct. 20, 2023, at a nursing home in Faribault. She had a fall at her home requiring hospitalization and transitioned to a nursing home for rehab.

Karen was born on March 19, 1946, in Rochester, to Ray and Mabel (Scherger) Wehrs. She grew up in Viola, Minn. with her parents and two sisters. Karen attended a one-room schoolhouse in Viola, walking uphill to and from school. She continued elementary school and high school in Elgin, graduating from Elgin High School.

Karen earned her teaching degree from Winona State University. She taught second grade in Blooming Prairie for 40 years, retiring in 2008.

While living in Blooming Prairie, Karen married Robert Pirkl on June 10, 1972. They raised two children, Daniel and Tina.

Karen enjoyed being a leader for Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts. She was active with the CCW and BPTA. Karen enjoyed spending her time with her family, especially watching her four grandchildren with their activities. Karen was known for her patience and kindness. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Karen is survived in death by her husband, Robert Pirkl, children: Dan (Laura) Pirkl and Tina Fausett, and her four grandchildren: Joe Pirkl, Sam Pirkl, Lily Fausett, and Ruby Fausett, in addition to nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Mabel Wehrs, and sister, Nancy Wehrs.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 27, 2023, at St. Columbanus Catholic Church in Blooming Prairie. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in St. Columbanus Catholic Cemetery, Blooming Prairie.

Worlein Blooming Prairie Funeral Home in Blooming Prairie is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.