Karen Hedtke
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Karen Jeanne Hedtke on May 6, 2025, at the age of 80. She passed peacefully with loved ones by her side at Rainy Lake Medical Center.
Karen was born on September 3, 1944, to Olaf and Jennie (Janet) Olson in International Falls, MN. She was the youngest of 9 children. She married Richard (Dick) Hedtke on July 5, 1963. Karen completed her certification in cosmetology, and returned to International Falls, where she started her career in a downtown salon. When that closed, she operated a salon in her home for 10 years as well as selling her crafted appliqué items. The next chapter of her career was the purchase of the Tee Pee Motel, which she and Dick operated together until he passed in 2015. They both thoroughly enjoyed meeting all the visitors and returning customers.
During her free time, she loved going camping, fishing, quilting, crafts, and shopping. She shared her passion for crafting and sewing with many dear friends who met quite frequently to work on projects, eat, and gossip. The last ten years of her life were spent with her loving companion, George Swentik. They spent most of their time together at George’s farm in Baudette. They kept busy gardening, fishing, hunting, playing cards, going to the casino, and visiting family. When she wasn’t enjoying outdoor activities, she was sewing or playing cards. She would even still give family members haircuts if they asked!
One of Karen’s favorite ways to spend her time was with her loved ones. She loved to go to family gatherings and attend her grandchildren’s events. She especially enjoyed sharing her hobbies with her family, teaching all of her young grandchildren to sew, crafting holiday cards together, and always making sure her loved ones had a homemade quilt to sleep under. She was talented, caring, fun-loving, and hardworking.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Jennie (Janet) and Olaf Olson; husband, Richard Hedtke; brothers, Milton, Harold, Olaf, Donald, and Ronald; and sisters, Marcelline, Delores, and Doris.
She is survived by her daughter, Michelle (Eric) Hebner of International Falls; son, Michael (Denise) Hedtke, of International Falls, grandchildren, Colin Hebner,Tayler Hebner, Nicholas (Haley)Hedtke, Cooper Hedtke; and one great grandchild, Aria Hedtke.
A memorial service will be held at First Lutheran Church in International Falls on May 16, 2025, at 11:00 AM. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.