Memorial Mass of Christian Burial for Karen will be held 10:30 AM on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Red Lake Falls, MN with Father Bob Schreiner Officiating. Burial will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery near Red Lake Falls, MN at a later date. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the Church on Saturday.
Karen Marie Guillemette, born May 17, 1951, in Crookston, MN, peacefully passed away on February 20, 2025 at Oakland Park Nursing Home in Thief River Falls, MN. She was the daughter of Norman and Nora (Brule) Audette and was raised near Red Lake Falls, where she attended Lafayette High School, graduating with the class of 1969.
On December 18, 1971, Karen married Jay Guillemette at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Red Lake Falls, MN. Together, they built a life near Red Lake Falls, where they resided for the past 50 years and raised their two children, Scott and Laci.
Karen dedicated 29 years of service as a deputy court administrator for Red Lake County. She also worked prior to this at Bemidji State College, Red Lake Electric and other local businesses throughout her career.
She found great joy in spending time with her grandchildren and was known for her exceptional holiday meals. She loved cooking, while experimenting with all kinds of recipes, canning fresh vegetables from her garden, and camping with her family. Karen was a compassionate person who had a deep sensitivity to the needs of others and was always there to offer kindness and support. She was an active member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and its guild.
Karen is survived by her husband of 53 years, Jay of Red Lake Falls, MN; son Scott of Red Lake Falls, MN; daughter Laci (Justin) Altepeter of Thief River Falls, MN; grandchildren Carlee (fiancé Ben) Peterson, Jay (friend Ava) Peterson, Carter Peterson, Drake (friend Gavin) Peterson, Cody Peterson, and Clara Altepeter; great-grandchildren Sara and Silas; sister Colleen Malwitz of Red Lake Falls, MN; as well as several nieces, nephews, and in-laws.
She was preceded in death by her parents; stepfather Curtis Berard; brothers Reynold and Gerald; and several in-laws.
Karen’s warmth and generosity will be deeply missed by all who knew her.