Caroline Jo Henriksen

Caroline J. Henriksen, age 85, of Farmington, MN, formerly of Hastings, MN, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2025.

Caroline was born July 27, 1939, in Decorah, Iowa, to parents Merle and Mary (Smith) Fender. She married Donald Henriksen on July 27, 1957, at the historic Little Brown Church in the Vale in Nashua, Iowa. In 1961, they settled in Hastings, Minnesota, where Don served as a police officer for 32 years, retiring as a sergeant, and Caroline began a long and dedicated career as a secretary at Smead Manufacturing. Together, they built a life around faith, family, and community.

Caroline had a deep love for her family, her church, gardening, and the joy of antiquing.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Don; son-in-law, Brett Behnke; and her parents.

Caroline is survived by her three children: Kevin (Michelle) Henriksen, Sherry (Gery) Wagner, and Tracie Behnke; ten grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. She is also survived by her siblings: Gary (Pat) Fender, Toni Miller, Martha Woofter, Kristine (Ken) Rieger, and Mary Fender; as well as sisters-in-law, Linda May and SueAnn DuVall.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, June 9, 2025, at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion St., Hastings, MN 55033. A visitation will take place from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., prior to the service at Starkson’s. Following the service, all are invited to remain at the chapel for a reception and continued time of fellowship.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to NCD Student Ministry, 3510 Hopkins Place N, Building 4, Oakdale, MN 55128.

Caroline and her family would like to express their immense gratitude for the compassionate care received from the wonderful staff at Trinity Terrace, Trinity Care Center, and Grace Hospice.