Karen L. White

Karen Louise White, 81, of Hibbing, MN, passed away peacefully at Carefree Living in Babbitt, MN, on Wednesday, September 24, 2025. She was born on October 3, 1943, in Hibbing to Alfred and Constance (Olson) Nehring. Karen graduated from Hibbing High School with the Class of 1961 and was a lifelong resident there raising her family and working with the Hibbing Elks Lodge for many years. On May 23, 1980, she married her husband Patrick White at Our Saviors Lutheran Church. They lived a busy life together while Karen enjoyed being part of the bowling league, curling club, and cross-country skiing in the early years. Karen was also an avid MN Twins Fan.  She loved crafting, cooking, and being the glue that connected her big and wonderful blended family. On Friday nights, Karen and Pat enjoyed joining their group of friends and having a beer at Checco’s bar and then going out for dinner. Karen enjoyed and loved being in the company of her children.  She absolutely adored her grandchildren and loved keeping up with them!The family expresses its gratitude to her “friends” and staff at Carefree Living in Babbitt.  

Karen is survived by her husband Pat, children, Jackie “Jacobson”/(Jim) Van Norman, Kelly Jacobson, Rebecca (Tim) Bjorngaard, Tracy (Mike Bielejeski) Kapla, Suzanne (Mike)Harris, Heidi (Doug) Socolofsky, Christopher (Amy) White, Chad (Jenny) Kapla and Nicholas White, fifteen grandchildren, five great grandchildren, nieces Rachel and Lindsey and nephew Ryan.  Karen is preceded in death by her parents and brother Larry Nehring.  

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Friday, October 10, 2025, at the Dougherty Funeral Home in Hibbing with visitation held one hour prior to the service at 10:00 a.m. Pastor Kevin Olson with Our Saviors Lutheran Church will officiate. Interment will take place at the Maple Hill Columbarium in Hibbing.