In Loving Memory of Karlene Ann Molloy

Karlene Ann Molloy, born on June 11, 1938, in Sandstone, MN, peacefully passed away on December 8, 2023, at St. Luke's Hospital in Duluth, MN. She was the beloved daughter of Carl and Vera Gustafson. Karlene touched the lives of many through her kindness, warmth, and unwavering love for her family. Karlene was 85 years old.

After graduating from Sandstone School, Karlene worked as a secretary in the Sandstone School District. Her commitment to her work was commendable, and she was highly regarded for her efficiency and dedication.

On January 16, 1960, Karlene married the love of her life, Ronald Molloy, and together they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Karlene had various jobs throughout her life, but her nurturing nature and keen eye for detail always shone through in everything she did.

Karlene loved to do a variety of things and enjoyed canning, cross-stitching, gardening, and knitting slippers. These hobbies allowed her to express her creativity and provided her with moments of happiness sharing her talents with family and friends. One of her greatest joys was embarking on road trips and vacations with her family, whether it was attending the Lobster Fest in Maine, exploring the wonders of Yellowstone National Park, experiencing the excitement of Vegas, or enjoying the vibrant entertainment in Branson. Closer to home, trips to Tressel Inn and Wilson Lake held a special place in her heart.

Above all, Karlene cherished her family with a profound and unconditional love. Family gatherings held a special meaning for her, and she thrived in the company of her loved ones. Whether it was the shared moments of canning pickles and sauerkraut, preserving the taste of home-grown sweet corn, or the spontaneous bonfires and gatherings, these moments brought immeasurable joy to her heart. Her face would light up whenever her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were around, bringing her laughter and keeping her young at heart.

Karlene Ann Molloy is preceded in death by her loving husband of 63 years, Ronald (Mickey), her grandson, Connor Waage, her parents, and her great-nephew, Brendon.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories in the hearts of her daughter, Cheri (Pete) Molloy of Finlayson, MN, her son Mark of Finlayson, MN, her daughter Kelly (Randy) Romanowski of Finlayson, MN, her daughter Kara (Brian) Waage of Oak Grove, MN, six grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, nephew DJ (Chris) Molloy, great nephews Colton and Dillion, and her special friends Rod Ocepek and Ryan Pracher.

A gathering of family and friends will be held in celebration of Karlene's extraordinary life at the Methven Funeral Home chapel, 114 5th St, Sandstone, MN 55072 on December 16, 2023 from 11am to 1pm, where family and friends are welcome to remember and honor her memory.

Arrangements by Methven Funeral and Cremation Services of Sandstone, MN.