Karen Louise Haehnel

Karen Haehnel passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on January 21, 2026, at her home in Hastings, Minnesota. She was 78 years old.

Karen was born on November 9, 1947, in Newport News, Virginia, the beloved daughter of Gloria and Charles Constable. She grew up in Cottage Grove, Minnesota and graduated from Park High School with the Class of 1966. Throughout her working years, Karen was employed in data entry, a role well-suited to her diligence, reliability, and quiet determination.

In 1987, fate stepped in outside the Inver Grove bowling alley when Karen met Herbert Haehnel. Introduced by Herb’s cousin, Linda Auger—who was also Karen’s friend—their connection was immediate and enduring. Karen and Herb were married in 1997, united in love at a family home in California after a blizzard rerouted their plans from Lake Tahoe. They shared a deep bond and a life rich with adventure, laughter, and devotion.

Karen found joy in the simple and beautiful things in life. She loved gardening, tending to her “pretty” flowers, reading, and working on puzzles. Her Bible was always close by, a reflection of her strong and abiding faith. She cherished traveling with Herb, motorcycle trips together (including one memorable, sunburn-filled ride to Sturgis), spending 20 magical days at Disney World, and wintering for many years in Mission, Texas, along the Rio Grande.

Above all, Karen was known for her heart. She was sweet, welcoming, compassionate, faith-filled, and kind—yet also strong and tough when life required it. She did what had to be done, without complaint, even if that meant walking six miles to work. She bent over backwards to make others feel comfortable and loved. A devoted soulmate and true inspiration, Karen taught Herb how to love deeply and genuinely. Her passion for people, her sincerity, and her grace left an unforgettable mark on all who knew her.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Scott Constable; and her stepdaughter, Cindy Bialon.

She is survived by her loving husband, Herbert Haehnel; her children, Dawn (Joe) Barthel, Craig (Michele) Haehnel, and stepson, Rick (Kassie) Haehnel; her cherished grandchildren, Lexi (Bryce) McClain, Brooke (Johnathan) Meadows, Avery Barthel, and Piercen Haehnel; her brother, Richard (Carole) Constable; sister-in-law, Joyce Constable; close cousin, Connie (Bob) Vadner; and many other relatives and dear friends.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at River of Life Church in Hastings, with visitation one hour prior to the service. A reception will follow. Interment will take place at Fort Snelling National Cemetery on Monday, February 2, 2026, at 10:15 a.m. Please meet at Assembly Area 6.

Karen’s legacy is one of love, faith, perseverance, and kindness—a life beautifully lived and deeply treasured.