Harriet Karr

Harriet Karr September 25, 1915 - July 30, 2009

Harriet J. Karr, age 93, of Faribault, died Thursday, July 30, 2009 at her home following an extended illness. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2009 at 11:30 a.m. at the Divine Mercy Catholic Church at Sacred Heart in Faribault. Interment will be at the St. Lawrence Cemetery in Faribault. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. at the church. Arrangements are being completed with the Parker Kohl Funeral Home of Faribault. Harriet Jacoba Pansier, the daughter of John and Jacoba (Valentyn) Pansier, was born on September 25, 1915 in Faribault. She graduated from Bethlehem Academy High School and later was married to Arthur Graunke on May 17, 1938. They farmed in Richland Township. Arthur preceded her in death on December 8, 1959. Harriet worked at the hospital until she attended St. Lucas Nursing Program, while keeping the family farm prospering. After graduation she worked as a LPN at District One Hospital until her retirement. She was married to Daryl Karr on May 11, 1968. He preceded her in death on August 30, 1980. Harriet was active with the Blood Mobile, Meals on Wheels, and was a foster grandparent in the Faribault Schools. She was a member of Sacred Heart Church and the Daughters of Isabella. Harriet enjoyed playing cribbage, cards, scrabble, and crocheting. She is survived by her children, Elaine (Don) Pesta of New Prague, Ruth Ann (Duane) Schauer of Lakeville, and Don (Judy) Graunke of Faribault; 12 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; brother-in-law, Arnold Graunke of Clayton, WI; sister-in-law, Lucy Pansier of Faribault; and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her spouses, Arthur Graunke and Daryl Karr; daughter, Jane Kelsey; son-in-law, Richard Kelsey; brothers, Willis and John Pansier; and sister, Matilda Friesen.