Karen K. Kodesh

Karen Kay Kodesh, age 72, a proud wife, mother and grandmother, who valued the simple things in life, passed away peacefully at home on September 6, 2025, surrounded by family.

Born on May 22, 1953, Karen focused her life on what mattered most—family, routine, gardening, and the quiet joys of everyday living. She was a friendly person, though she preferred the peace of her own space and the comfort of familiar things.

Karen married her husband Tom in 1971, and eventually settled on her family farm in Dovre. Their property is beautiful—surrounded by her flower gardens, and acres of open land.

She spent countless hours outside tending to her beautiful gardens, while enjoying the sun and beauty around her. Karen had an appreciation for the outdoors. She valued the importance of fresh air and daily walks. Whether it was a walk in the yard, fields, or in their woods, getting outside was part of the routine she cherished.

Karen found joy in life’s simple pleasures; sunflowers, roses, the flowers in her garden, colorful sunsets, rainbows, visits from her grandchildren, and attending bingo. She was also an avid sports fan, cheering on the Milwaukee Brewers, Dallas Cowboys, the Wisconsin Badgers and keeping up with NASCAR racing.

Karen raised caterpillars into butterflies, caring for them until it was time to set them free. A cherished tradition that she shared with her family and passed on to many others.

Karen is survived by her husband of almost 54 years: Tom; her children: Scott (Heidi) Kodesh; Tracy (Kjell) Jorstad, and their children Greta and Christian; Melissa (Aaron) Robert, and their children Ashley and Bradley, her son-in-law: Britt (fiancé Shelby) Hodgson, and children: Ellie Mae, Jerry Lee, Colsen, and Evelyn; siblings: Kenneth (Sue) Gehl, Kathy Evenson, Nancy (Doug) Salter, Barb (Steve) Kessinger and Kristi LeClair.

She was preceded in death by her parents: Henry and Betty Gehl, her daughters: Tammy and Amanda (mother of Ellie Mae and Jerry Lee); siblings: Gary, William and Wanda.

To honor Karen’s life and wishes, a private service will be held at a later date. 

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the care team at Marshfield Medical Centers for their compassionate care and to the friends and family that showed their love and support during this time.