Karen M. Arneson

Karen Arneson, 83, of Fargo, ND, passed away on Tuesday, September 11, 2012, at Sanford Health, Fargo, surrounded by her family.

Karen Marie Pedersen was born December 13, 1928 in Luverne, ND to Niels and Mary (Rasmussen) Pedersen. She was raised in Luverne, graduating from high school as Valedictorian in 1946. She went to Valley City Teachers College where she received her teaching certificate.
Karen first taught in Steele, ND in 1948-49, after which she spent time teaching in Buffalo, Dickinson, Valley City, and Great Falls, MT. During this time, she studied for and received her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Valley City Teachers College. In 1958, she moved to Moorhead, MN, where she taught at Sharp and George Washington Elementary schools until her retirement in 1986.

On August 14, 1960, Karen married Ronald L. Arneson in Luverne, ND. Together they made their home in Fargo, ND, where they raised their daughter, Jill.

Karen was very involved in different community organizations, including Naomi Circle at Hope Lutheran Church, Moorhead Retired Teachers Association, and Danish Sisterhood. She was so proud of her grandson, Evan, and enjoyed supporting him in his various activities. Karen always kept busy with family, neighbors, and friends, never allowing herself to be bored.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents.

She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Ron; daughter, Jill (Doug) Kurtz, Fargo; grandson, Evan Kurtz, Fargo; brother, Jorgen Pedersen, Cooperstown, ND; three nieces and three nephews.