Kathleen Elizabeth Carlson

Kathleen E. Carlson, age 93 of Cottage Grove passed away February 22, 2026.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 am, Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at The Church of St. Rita, 8694 80th St. S, Cottage Grove with visitation starting at 9:30 am until the time of service. A private family interment will be held at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.

Kathleen Elizabeth Carlson was born February 2, 1933, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Leonard and Elsie Schultz. She grew up in St. Paul and her education included her grade school years at St. Agnes and graduating from Wilson High School. She was married to George Carlson at St. Bernard's Catholic Church on February 23, 1957.

She was an accomplished accordion player. Her talent led her to win a state competition, and she enjoyed sharing her gift as a member of the Great Northern Clown Band for ten years. She volunteered entertaining at the VA and many senior facilities.

She enjoyed crocheting, ceramics and bowling but many will remember her as a master Christmas cookie maker, creating 200 dozen cookies each year. Kathleen loved visiting with people and making new friends wherever she went.

Kathleen spent several years working for the Great Northern Railroad, but her true calling was devoting her time and love to raising her children as a stay‑at‑home mom.

She is preceded in death by her husband George; parents Leonard and Elsie Schultz and brother Leonard Schultz. Kathleen will be sadly missed by her children Sue (Sean) Devine, Sharon (Rick) Weiman, John (Rita), and Mike (Sue); 8 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren along with many nieces, nephews and friends.

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