Karen Jo Noltee – Rochester

Karen Jo (Washburn) Noltee, 86, passed away on September 30, 2025, following a brief illness at Rochester Methodist Hospital.

Karen, born on December 21, 1938, was the oldest child to Harold and Adeline (Brandvik) Washburn. She married Richard Hansen in 1957, and together they had a daughter, Kari. They later divorced. Karen married Dennis Noltee Sr. on January 17, 1975, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua Iowa, celebrating 50 years together this past January.

Karen led a full and vibrant life. She began her career in Financial Credit Services and transitioned into customer service in later years. She was a proud mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. In her younger years, Karen enjoyed roller skating and transitioned into spending time at the lake with Denny. They started with camping, upgraded to an RV, and eventually owned their cabin for over 20 years. Karen had a remarkable talent for gardening, with a particular love for hostas, fairy gardens, and succulents. She was deeply involved in the local gardening community, participating in several organizations, teaching classes when able, and participating in garden tours and plant sales. Karen was known for her feisty, creative, and giving nature, and her green thumb will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her husband, Dennis; daughter Kari Fairclough; grandchildren Heather (Brent) Weber, Ted (Sara) Fairclough; great-grandchildren Josie Weber, Emily Christenson and Nathan Fairclough; step-son Dennis Noltee Jr., step-grandchildren Shayla Lemon and Quinn Noltee, and step-great grandchildren James, Jack and Lexin.

Karen is preceded in death by her parents, brother Charles Washburn, and son-in-law Tim Fairclough.

The memorial service for Karen will be held at 11:00am on Thursday, October 2, 2025 in the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home. Visitation will be held starting at 9:30AM prior to the service, in the chapel. A private graveside service will be held at the Minnesota State Veteran's Cemetery in Preston, MN at a future date.

Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com