

Karen Dorholt was a woman who balanced brightness with beauty, and charm with intelligence. A lifetime Minnesotan, she was born Karen Diane Mooney on July 14, 1948 in White Bear Lake, MN. She transitioned out of this life at her home in Maple Grove on September 11, 2026.
Karen was driven by profound care for her family and friends. Care that could be felt and that became sustenance. She held her connections at her heart, and always shaped prayers for others while keeping a light lit for her loved ones. She lived passionately and with intention.
Karen was devoted to singing and her commitment strengthened her range. She truly loved the sun, lakes and rivers, and had a searching dedication to reading. Her wit was charged and made her find humor in the tiniest of life‘s corners. She was skilled and humble, someone who could dash off stunning watercolors, sing in tune with her favorite singers, and jest with the best of ‘em.
The spirit which characterized Karen’s life was visible across a range of disciplines. She held a degree in English and an M.S. in rehabilitation counseling. She started her own business as a counselor after serving with the state. This achievement is but one example that highlights her quiet intelligence and rich will.
Her legacy of warmth, partnership, motherhood, and tenacity will be carried forward.
Karen will be immensely missed and marvelously remembered. She is survived by her loving husband Kingsly; children, Zachary and Tyler; granddaughters, Eliza, Gracie, and Vivienne; grandsons, Kellan and Adrian; daughter-in-law’s, Jennifer and Katie; sisters, Pat and Sandy; brother, Vernon; her kind Dorholt in-laws, and so many sparkling friends.
She joins her parents and brother Jim in the afterlife.
We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the family and all who mourn Karen’s departure.
A Memorial Service celebrating her loving life will be held on October 16, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Maple Grove. We invite all who knew and loved Karen to join us in honoring her memory. In lieu of flowers, we encourage you to honor her legacy of care and curiosity by seeking out connection, never letting go of wonder, and sharing your memories when they arise. You could also buy someone a good book. This, we believe, would be the best tribute to her beautiful life.
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