Karen L. Novotny

Karen Novotny, 66, Rosholt, SD, passed away Thursday, May 8, 2014, at Sanford Hospital in Fargo, ND.

Funeral services were Saturday, May 17, at 10:30 a.m. at Bethania Lutheran Church in Rosholt with Rev. Nancy Quatier officiating. Music was provided by organist Lana Sand.  Honorary urn bearers were Karen's nephews, Shannon Davis, Eric Davis, Eric Novotny, and Sam Moritz.

Visitation was Saturday from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the church.

Karen Louise was born April 22, 1948, in Mitchell, SD, to Wilton and Evelyn (Huwe) Davis. She was baptized and confirmed in Mitchell. She attended school in Mitchell, graduating from Mitchell High School in 1966. Karen then received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Science and English from Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell.

On December 27, 1972, Karen married Michael Novotny in Mitchell. After their marriage, Karen taught at various schools including Crow Creek, Miller, Highmore, New Effington, and Rosholt. In 1990, Karen returned to school at North Dakota State College of Science earning an Associate Degree in Graphic Arts Technology. Karen continued to substitute teach in Rosholt and ran her own graphic arts business, Coteau Hills Publishing. In 2000, Karen began teaching at the Circle of Nations School in Wahpeton, ND, retiring in 2010. She also was employed at the Glacial Lakes Department of Tourism Information Center during the summers from 1997 to 2013.

Karen enjoyed flowers, reading and doing puzzles. Karen was a super role model for all that she came into contact with. She spent her married life being a wife, mother, and teacher along the way touching many young hearts. When her girls were by her side, they were always greeted by her warm smile.

Survivors include her husband, Michael of Rosholt; two daughters, Charissa Novotny of Omaha, NE, and Amber (Brady) Wichmann of Box Elder, SD; two grandchildren, Cade and Danika Wichmann of Box Elder; brothers, Craig (Sara) Davis of Sioux Falls, Mark (Tammy) Davis, and Dana Davis all of Mitchell; sister, Laurie Ell of Mitchell; mother-in-law, Thelma Novotny of Sioux Falls; brother-in-law, Joe (Carrie) Novotny of Omaha; and sisters-in-law, Julie Novotny and Jane Novotny of Sioux Falls; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Wilton and Evelyn; brother, Steve; sister, Sheree; father-in-law, Frank; and a nephew and great niece.