Karen "Kara" Debra Kusel (Peck)

Karen "Kara" Debra Kusel (Peck), age 62, of Woodbury, Minnesota passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 5, 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born on March 24, 1963 in St. Paul, Minnesota to parents, Walter "Buzz" and Myrtis Peck. She grew up in Afton and graduated from Stillwater High School in 1981. She then went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in elementary education and a Master of Education in special education both from the University of Minnesota. She was dedicated to her profession for over 40 years and helped countless children through their educational years and beyond. She spent majority of her career helping those in the South Washington County School District 833; starting in District 916. The most important aspect of her nature and her work was her ability to help the most behaviorally challenged students, while supporting her colleagues. Her empathy and compassion shined in all facets of what she did.

Kara enjoyed health and fitness; she was a gymnast, runner, and blackbelt in karate. She was a lover of all animals from her beloved kitties to all the wildlife she cared outside her home. She had an eye for fashion and style. She loved to shop, often receiving compliments on her outfits. She also collected gems, minerals; in which she was able to make beautiful jewelry.

She will be dearly missed by many family and friends, who considered her an angel on earth.

She is survived by husband of 29 years, Dean; mother, Myrtis DuFresne of Arizona; brother, Paul (Bev) Peck; sister, Tracey (Tim) Young; nephews, Jackson and Mason Young. Preceded in death by father, Walter "Buzz" Peck.

Celebration of Life 11 AM with visitation beginning at 9:30 AM, Saturday, November 22, 2025 at Saint Peter Lutheran Church, 880 Neal Ave. S, Afton, MN 55001. There will be a luncheon to follow that all are welcome to join.

Memorials preferred to Animal Ark (Hastings) and Wildlife Rehabilitation Center (Roseville).