Karen Arlene Rantala

June 9, 1957 – January 17, 2026

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Karen Rantala after a courageous battle with cancer. Karen, 68, passed away on January 17, 2026 at Essentia Hospital, Duluth.

Karen was a graduate of South Shore High School, later earned degrees in accounting, psychology, and social work from UW-Superior. She enjoyed camping, off-road trail riding and ice racing as a member of the 4x4 Cowboys and the Midwest 4-Wheel Drive Association. She also enjoyed her long career at Human Development Center and Interim HealthCare in Duluth.

Karen is preceded in death by parents, Ernest and Viola Rantala and brother Arnold. She is survived by brothers; Donald (Jeanette), Kenneth (Bonnie), Clifford (Lynn), by sister Janet (Teresa DeWitt) and sister-in-law Eileen Marciniak. And many treasured nieces and nephews.

The family would also like to thank the staff at Essentia Health Oncology and Infusion Centers, and Dr. Anthony Wiseman.

Karen’s quick wit and sense of humor will be truly missed by everyone who knew her.