Karen Arunski

Karen Gerlach Arunski died peacefully at Bethany Retirement Center on January 13, 2024, in Fargo ND, with her husband by her side.

Karen was born on May 28, 1951, to Richard and Evelyn Gerlach in Fergus Falls, MN. She grew up on a farm south pf Foxhome, MN. Karen attended a one room country school through 4th grade. The school then consolidated with Campbell Public School, where she graduated in 1969.

Karen attended Moorhead State College for one year and then transferred to St. Lukes School of Nursing in Fargo, ND. She received her RN degree in 1972.

Karen began her nursing career in Watertown, SD. It was there where she met the love of her life, her husband Alan Arunski.
Karen and Al were married at Foxhome Lutheran Church in Foxhome, MN in 1973.

After moving to Fargo, their two sons Nathan and Matthew were born. Karen continued working at St Lukes Hospital until they relocated to St Louis, Mo.

Karen’s nursing career continued until her retirement due to health issues.

The focus of her life was her family, especially her three grandchildren Sophie, Ellie and Henry. In August, 2022 Karen and Al returned to Fargo and resided at Edgewood Vista Retirement Center. It was during this time Karen’s health declined and her last few months were spent at Bethany Retirement Center.

Karen and Al were fortunate to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary in October of 2023.

Karen is survived by her soul mate and husband Alan and their dog Hickory. Her sons Nathan (Sara), Matthew (Jill) and her three grandchildren Sophie, Ellie and Henry. She is also survived by her only sibling Kathy Simison-Schreiber (Skip) and her aunt Phyllis Green and uncle Donald Pederson. A special cousin Barb Godel, who was a constant support and friend throughout her life. She is also survived by many Arunski families in the St Louis area as well as her many nieces, nephews and cousins in Minnesota.

A heartfelt thank you to Edgewood Vista, Bethany Retirement Center and Ethos Hospice for their compassion and professional care. A prayer service in Karen’s memory will be held at Edgewood Vista in Fargo at 3 PM on Sunday, January 21, 2024, with visitation one hour prior.

A service will be held in St. Louis at a later date.