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Karen Velline Obituary
Collegeville, Minnesota
September 22, 1943 ~ August 3, 2015
Mass of Christian Burial will be on Monday, August 10th at 10:00 AM at St. John the Baptist Abbey Church in Collegeville for Karen A. Velline, age 71, of Collegeville, who died on Monday, August 3rd at the University of Minnesota Hospital in Minneapolis. Rev. Greg Miller OSB and Rev. Eugene McGlothlin OSB will concelebrate. Burial will be in the Parish cemetery. Friends may call on Sunday between 4:00-8:00 PM at St. John the Baptist Parish Center in Collegeville and on Monday one hour prior to services at the Church. Parish prayers will be at 6:00 PM.
Karen was born September 22, 1943 in Detroit Lakes, MN to LeRoy and Martha (Tembrock) Bergen. Her lifelong affinity for and connection to the Virgin Mary began as a young girl when she was crowned Our Lady at a "May Procession" Mass. She married Robert Velline (Bobby Vee) on December 28, 1963 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Detroit Lakes. She and her husband moved to Los Angeles, CA for his recording career until 1980 when they moved to St. Cloud, and eventually Collegeville, MN. Karen attended Moorhead State University and finished at UCLA with a Bachelorette Degree in Early Child Development. She finished her education attaining a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Minnesota. Karen was employed by the Kimball School district and later received the Rose Award for her volunteer role in setting up the Rape Crisis Center for Women in St. Cloud. Karen trained in "Living in Process, Beyond Therapy" under Anne Wilson Schaef. She then founded her own private practice and retired at the age of 60.
Karen, along with her husband Bob, spent her retirement years at both their Watab Lake and Tucson homes. She enjoyed riding her horse Stormy through the mountains of Catalina State Park and spending time with her five grandchildren. Karen was very proud that all of her children attended Cathedral High School where she and Bob had created the "Rock Around the Clock" fundraising event that ran for 24 years and later evolved into "Joetown Rocks", a fundraiser for the parish of St. Joseph. Karen and Bob were awarded the Paramount Theatre's Life Time Achievement Award for their contribution to the Arts in Central Minnesota in 2011. She was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Collegeville, MN. Karen will be remembered by all who knew her for her numerous contributions to the community, her generous heart and her infectious smile.
Survivors include her husband Bobby of Watab Lake, children, Jeff Velline (Cindy) Avon, Tommy Velline (Kathy) St. Cloud, Robert Velline (Mary) Prior Lake, Jennifer Velline Whittet (Barron) Buffalo, grandchildren, Bennett, Liam, Alison, Saima and Calianna, brothers and sisters, Robert Bergen (Cookie) Detroit Lakes, Raymond Bergen (Akama) Woodstock, NY, Joanne Lane, St. Cloud, Richard Bergen (Sue) Maple Grove, Patricia Vogt (Mitch) Detroit Lakes, Michael Bergen (Patricia) Salt Lake City, UT, Mary Solmon (Marty) Detroit Lakes, Steve Bergen (Detroit Lakes) and Joseph Bergen (Kelli) Avon.
She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Monica, brothers Ronnie and Jim, brother-in-law Donald Lane and nephews Gabriel and Steven.
Memorials are preferred to St. John the Baptist Parish in Collegeville, MN, the Parish that prayed for and supported Karen throughout her journey.
The Velline family, on our mother's behalf, would like to say thank you to all of our family and friends who have been so loving and supportive during Mom's courageous battle. We would like to send out a very special thanks to Dr. Palmer and the medical team at Duke University Hospital, Durham, NC, Dr. Walia and the medical team at St. Joseph's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, Dr. Christine Reichl and the medical team at St. Cloud Hospital, St. Cloud, MN and Dr. Hertz and the medical team at the University of Minnesota Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN. Lastly, we would like to say thank you to all who have had the courage and foresight to become organ donors. Words cannot begin to express the depths of our gratitude.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Karen Velline
Donna (Weaver) Jensen
August 4, 2024
As the years have gone by, way too fast, I will always remember Bobby Vee from my two times I saw him, once in Fridley, and Milaca, Mn. I am originally from St.Cloud, so have that attachment to the Velline family. I am still so sorry, after all these years, that Karen and Bobby are gone, but to a much better place. I know we'll meet again some day, but for now, I send my sympathy to their family members that miss him also. RIP KAREN & BOBBY.
ALWAYS, DONNA (WEAVER) JENSEN
ZOË & MELVYN BRIDGES
July 31, 2022
We had known Karen & her family since 1989. She was a lovely caring person and she is greatly loved and missed by all her family and friends. Always in our thoughts. Bobby & Karen are now together again. RIP dear friends.
Kayt Havens
July 31, 2021
I am on Madeline and I never arrive on the ferry without thinking of both Karen and Jenny. Always in my heart
Linda Meeson
July 31, 2020
Karen was an angel always put her family first ,and made sure they were well loved and looked after ,even after all she had to bare with her own illness,just an angel and is sadly missed ,but now Karen is with her beloved Bobby once again RIP ,both of you
Margaret Mary Fahy
April 19, 2016
Forever in my thoughts! X
Margaret Mary Fahy
April 19, 2016
Forever in my thoughts
April 18, 2016
Always loved Bobby Vee and in High school was my favorite recording artist.
Graduated from Cooley High in Detroit, Michigan in 1961.
"Mr Blue " was playing the day I met my husband of 51 years.
He is now in heaven as Karen is. Bobby and family I want you to know that You are all in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Your precious Karen went to Heaven just 2 months after my dear husband did.
It is hard for our 4 grandchildren and myself and our 2 children. Please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers.
My husband and I love "Devil or Angel" "Mr. Blue"
"Rubber Ball" "Take good care of my Baby" and many others.
My heart weeps for you.
She was a wonderful Help meet for Bobby and a terrific mother and grandmother.
God Bless
She will be greatly missed and never forgotten.
Love, In Jesus]
Carolyn Grace Eleinko
Bob and Kathy Lockley
March 5, 2016
So sorry to hear about Karen. To her family I know she must have been very proud of all of you. She is in a better place now and without pain. Please continue to do what you do. You are all so talented and kn ow that she is watching over all of you.
Sheila Brannan-Veach
August 10, 2015
Love and Prayers to the Family. I know you were welcomed in the Heavens by these words..
Welcome Home My Good And Faithful Servant!!
sharon contento veno
August 10, 2015
May God bless and comfort Bobby,and the Vee families at this time. We will miss you Karen. May you rest in peace.
Sandra Garrett
August 10, 2015
Just wanted to say I am thinking of Bobby and all of his family during this very sad time. The love and life you and Karen shared was unique and special. With much love and condolences from Western Australia. ♡♥
Jacqui Thomas
August 10, 2015
Rest on peace Karen. You fought as hard as you could but heaven needed an angel and so took you to God's home. You will be greatly missed and loved by all whose lives you touched. God bless.
Brant Hart
August 9, 2015
Bobby, So sorry to hear about Karen's death. I have a number of your songs on my iPod. My prayers go out to your family in the loss of Karen. I know your many fans stand with you in your time of sorrow.
jennie echelberger
August 8, 2015
Thoughts and hugs sent your way in this time of sadness.
Sue Dees
August 8, 2015
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. Bob and I enjoyed seeing you in Biloxi. Bobby you spoke of Karen with such love. I loss Bob in 2010 and I have my memories and so will you. Your Children will be there for you and so will all your fans around the world praying and supporting you. God's Blessing on you and your family..
My HEART is Full of GRATITUDE for the Time you Walked in my Life.
K Hartmann
August 8, 2015
For Karen
No Matter what we Lose or Gain,
In this Life only LOVE Remains.
Wherever you trave, Near or Far
You will always BE in our Hearts.
K. Hartmann
August 8, 2015
Karen and Bobby graciously let myself and Lyn stay in their guest house in 1999, and a better two weeks would be hard to match. She did have an amazing warm smile, and was amazingly warm as a person. Love to all the family from the bottom of my heart. Andy Sharocks
Kayt Havens
August 7, 2015
I am so grateful to have had Karen bless my life. What I have always loved about Karen is her commitment to and love for her family. She was a beloved teacher of mine.
August 7, 2015
Bobby and Family. Our deepest condolences to all of you. Take care of you and each other during this difficult time. Sending much sympathy and love, Ron & Peggy Mikkelsen, Las Vegas, NV (formerly Topeka, KS)
taken when I worked at Al's. Much love to you all!
August 7, 2015
Sympathy from the Debi Konz family. I've only met the sons (I worked at Al's Music) and it has always been obvious to me that Mom was very special; because her sons make everyone feel special.
Winnie Nyhus
August 7, 2015
I attended Moorhead state college at the time Karen attended. I remember her then as a very kind and compassionate young woman. Many years later our family spent time at White Earth's New Horizon Resort in the only cabin available at the time Karen's family was there! A lovely, sweet lady has become a special angel.
Loving thoughts to her beautiful family.
August 7, 2015
I remember Karen as a gracious lady who loved life. May she rest in peace as she enters the heavenly gates.
Love to all of you.
Sharron Courville
Wanda Dutton
August 7, 2015
May God surround you with his loving arms and carry you all through this difficult time.
Lorraine Lowe
August 6, 2015
To my dear friend Bobby & family... Words are not enough to express the sadness I feel for you at this time. Your beloved wife, mother & grandmother will be greatly missed. Karen was one of the 'Beautiful People' and I am so happy to have met her & got to know her on your many tours of Australia and my visits to the US. You are a very special family and those of us who got to meet & know you are the lucky ones. God Bless you and please know my love & condolences are coming to you from Melbourne. Sending the biggest Aussie hugs to you.
JoAnn Kauffman
August 6, 2015
My thoughts and prayers are with this wonderful family.May you feel her love around you as you go on in life.
August 6, 2015
This evening I was at the Paramount listening to Bennett drum his heart out and thought wherever you are Karen, the beat goes on...God's Speed. Marilyn
Carol Peddycoart
August 6, 2015
I'm so sorry to hear such sad news. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. God Bless You.
cindy
August 6, 2015
Sending Sincere condolences To Bobby,Family
Carol Rogers
August 6, 2015
I'm so sorry for the Velline family loss of a woman who did so much in her life. She will never be forgotten and will live on through all her accomplishments and her loving family.
Janice Mahatha Molina
August 6, 2015
Our heartfelt prayers are with all of the Velline family during this difficult time. God took your angel mother home.
Carol Theisen
August 6, 2015
My condolences to the family. Been a big fan of Bobby Vee in the 1960 Met him and Karen at Sportsmans warehouse in Waite Park,Mn such genuine people May God Bless the family
Vanessa Ranagan
August 6, 2015
So sorry for your loss of a wife, mother, grandmother and sister. your family will be in my prayers.
August 6, 2015
We pray for the progress of your illumined soul through all the heavenly realms of God. You truly were a good and faithful srvant on this earth and loved by all who knew you. " cleanse them with the most pure water..cause them to enter the divine rose garden and behold Thy Splendours.."
Warmest Love,
Mary and Ken Zemke
Susan Hirons
August 6, 2015
Sending sincere condolences to Bobby, family and friends, on the loss of such a special lady! Thoughts and prayers with you always!xxx
Kevin Grondahl
August 6, 2015
Prayers of comfort for the Velline Family. God Bless Karen's memory. In Jesus name, Amen.
Cathey Cordes
August 6, 2015
I am so very sorry for your loss. Karen was a great and classy woman and fought so hard. You all fought hard. I hope you find some comfort in Karen's freedom from suffering now. Warmest thoughts
Sandra
August 6, 2015
My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this saddest of times.
linda meeson
August 6, 2015
may the lord hold you tight R.I.P Karen a very lovely lady who will be missed by all
Diane Carr
August 6, 2015
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with all of your family.
May God Bless
Keith Skue
August 6, 2015
A wonderful lady. RIP
Barbara Wood
August 6, 2015
My most sincere condolences to Karen's husband Bobby Vee and her sons and indeed, the whole family. I met Bobby a couple of times at The Victoria Theatre in Hanley, Stoke on Trent, England. He was/is a real gentleman. So very sorry for your loss. May your hearts be filled with the happy memories that I am sure she has left you.
Jayne and Dave Smith
August 6, 2015
Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to Bobby and the entire family.
Mike
August 6, 2015
Bless you, Lovely Lady and blessings too for Bobby and all the family.
Laurie and George Zarr
August 6, 2015
Our deepest sympathies for the loss of a remarkable and accomplished woman who touched and improved the lives of many. May your loss be softened by your treasured memories.
Robert Hazen
August 6, 2015
What a lady and precious life! Rest peacefully in His arms Karen. Peace and strength to Bobby and the children.
Donna Jensen
August 6, 2015
I send my personal sympathy to you Bobby Vee for your loss. I am also from St. Cloud originally, but live in Iowa now. I met you in Fridley, Mn. in the 80's when you performed there & autographed "Red Bouncing Balls" for people, using MY pen. I still have my ball, but you kept the pen ;-} I also then saw you in Milaca, Mn. when you performed at the High School. I had brought my Mom, and a friend I danced with all evening. We went past you while dancing and you remembered me & we spoke for a little bit. I have lost my spouse also, so I do know the sorrow you are going through. God needed her for something else now, and we are all happy to know she knew the Lord. God Bless you and all your family. ALWAYS, DONNA JENSEN
Todd Neuman
August 6, 2015
So sorry for your loss. Our prayers and thoughts are with the Vee family.God Bless from Marcella and Todd.
Sandra Buxton-Paessler
August 6, 2015
Karen had to have been a gentle Spirit as all who knew and loved her had only kind words to say about her. I never met her, however, friends and family made me feel as if somehow , I did know her. She is at peace and her gentle Spirit is with the Lord and the Angels. My thoughts and prayers are for family and friends at this time. God Bless and comfort all....
J Williams
August 6, 2015
May peace be with you.
Judy Buerkle
August 6, 2015
So sorry for your loss of a wife, mother, grandmother and sister. your family will be in our prayers.
Dan Turner
August 6, 2015
Karen touched my life in positive ways with her insight and wisdom, for which I am very grateful.
Jim Meadows
August 6, 2015
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. Karen was an incredible woman and her fight was inspiring. I already miss her electric smile. RIP my friend
Rita James
August 6, 2015
Thinking of you all at this sad time god bless you.
Mikki Parkhill
August 6, 2015
My deepest thoughts and prayers reach out to Bobby, Robby, Tommy, Jeff, Jenny and the entire Velline and Bergen families. Heaven has gained a very special Angel.
Ed Burns
August 6, 2015
My thoughts and prayers are with your wonderful family as they deal with such a loss. There is another beautiful smile in Heaven.
Jan Dougherety
August 6, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Tom Golden
August 6, 2015
To the entire Velline family, I extend my deepest sympathies. Please know you are in my houghts and prayers and I know God will bring you peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Bob and Patty Eveslage
August 6, 2015
God's Blessings to all of you at this time. Our prayers are for you and your families. Karen and all the angels are smiling down on you.
Michael Jablonski
August 6, 2015
Our deepest sympathies to the Velline family on your loss. May God be with you all to ease the pain.
Kelly Watts
August 6, 2015
Bobby and family my deepest condolences and prayers for you and your family at this difficult time from me and all the listeners of The Class Reunion.
gary cron
August 6, 2015
I am saddened to read the news. Such a great family going through the toughest of times. May God be with you
Brenda Shears
August 6, 2015
My condolences to you all at this sad time. God bless. With love Brenda Shears Hampshire England
Ron Baker
August 6, 2015
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
August 6, 2015
Bobby,Rob,Jeff,Tommy, Jenny and all the Vallines, I will say a prayer for Karen and all of you as you go through this tough time. Her love and memories will always be in your Heart.
Ann Whalen
August 6, 2015
Rip pretty lady!! Thank you for sharing Bobby with his fans!
Into His Hands
Noah Webster
August 6, 2015
My the Lord Bless and Keep you and thanks for being a wonderful wife to a man whose music we grew up with and love Blessed Be The Name of The Lord
Lily Hyatt
August 6, 2015
What a beautiful lady who gave so much to others . May you're memories of life with her bring you comfort in days ahead
Steve@hscbrokers and Cindy Swenson
August 6, 2015
So sorry for the loss of your mother, wife, grandmother and friend! Our thoughts and prayers go out to you! Peace be with you!
Isabel Rose
August 6, 2015
Bobby and Family, my heart goes out to you all. Wish I could be there to give you all a hug. Karen was a beautiful woman and will be missed. God Bless all of you.
ZO & MELVYN BRIDGES
August 6, 2015
Condolences, Love & Prayers to all the Velline Family.
We will miss you Karen. We have lots of happy memories and our lives have been richer for having known you. Love to all the family from Zoë & Melvyn in the UK. xxx
Kathy Hall
August 6, 2015
Those we love don't fade away they walk beside us everyday silent unheard but in your heart a memory so bright it can lift your heart. God bless the lady with the beautiful smile in memory of Karen Velline
August 6, 2015
A true friend and neighbor always smiling even through illness. May Our Lady of Guadalupe wrap her arms around you.
Bernadette and Wayne Olson, Indianapolis, IN
Mary Fahy
August 6, 2015
It can be so hard to face the first year without your loved one, but the love of family and friends can carry you through.
Mary Botz
August 6, 2015
What a beautiful soul...to be greatly missed here on earth. You will continue to feel her with you, though. Sending prayers to all of you. God bless.
The Botz Family~Jeff, Mary, Ellie, Carter, and Alaina
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