Kate Esther Koljonen was born on January 17, 1982 in Vancouver, Wa. On June 7^th 2019, at the age of 37, she peacefully passed away surrounded by her loved ones at her home in Minnetrista, Minnesota, after a long battle of cancer.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Esko Koljonen and her 6 children Drew, Dean, Lewis, Hugh, Genevieve and Cecilia. Parents Dan & Ruth Charlson; 3 brothers, Eric with Melissa, Mark with Jeana, & Peter; 5 sisters Sarah with John Cichosz; Rebecca with Shawn Kysar; Kristine with Jason Hiivala; Laura with Tyrell Johnson & Mary with Luke Williamson; mother–in-law Sanna Koljonen; along with many nieces & nephews. She was preceded in death by her father–in-law Phillip Koljonen.

Kate was known and loved for her caretaking and outgoing nature.  She opened her doors and arms to her Christian companions, family, and neighbors.  She established life-long bonds with those she knew throughout her life.

Kate was a lifelong member of the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church and set a beautiful example through her simple believing to the end of her days. She was a help to so many with her gift to freely open her heart and talk of her thoughts.

Kate cherished her family and friends and her greatest wish and heart’s desire was that they would hold fast to the living Christianity so they too could gain that great victory.

Funeral Services were held at 11 AM on Thursday, June 13, 2019 at the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church in rural Delano. Visitation was Wednesday, from 6-8 PM at the church. Interment was in the church cemetery.