Karen E. Ringhofer

1952 - 2026

Owatonna - Karen E. Ringhofer of Owatonna, MN, passed away on January 4, 2026, at Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato, MN.

Friends may greet the family on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, from 4:00-7:00 PM at Brick-Meger Funeral Home (1603 Austin Rd, Owatonna), and one hour prior to the funeral service at the church on Thursday. The funeral service will be held Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. John Lutheran Church (1301 Lincoln Ave SE, Owatonna).

Karen was born on April 9, 1952, in Austin, MN, the daughter of James and Theresa (Langreck) Zipse. She attended Pacelli High School in Austin and graduated in 1970. Following high school, Karen worked briefly for Owatonna Canning Company before beginning a long career as an operator with Qwest in Owatonna. After her time at Qwest, she continued her working career with Jostens, retiring in 2010.

On October 16, 1981, Karen was united in marriage to Dale Ringhofer in Owatonna. Together they made their home in the Owatonna area, where they raised their daughter. Karen especially cherished time spent caring for her grandchildren as they were growing up. She also enjoyed fishing and traveling, particularly cruise trips around the world with her husband and family.

Karen is survived by her husband of 44 years, Dale Ringhofer; daughter Amy (Josh) Matejcek of Owatonna; grandchildren Avery and Mason Matejcek; brother Brian (Lisa) Zipse of Montgomery, MN; sister-in-law Carolyn Zipse; along with many nieces, nephews, and other family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Theresa Zipse; brother Mark Zipse; brother-in-law Ronald Ringhofer; and her parents-in-law, Leonard and Gladys Ringhofer.

Memorials are preferred to St. John Lutheran Church. For more information or to leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.megercares.com