Kari Leigh Brantner

Kari Leigh Brantner, age 40, passed away March 26, 2025, at Sanford Hospital following a hard-fought battle with a mysterious infection. Kari, the lover of animals, adventure, and all things sparkly, is leaving behind a lifetime of love, and unwavering loyalty to those she held dear.

Kari’s heart was as big as her love for her four rescue dogs—because saving just one wasn’t enough. Her kindness extended far beyond animals; she would do anything for the people she loved, standing by them without judgment, offering unwavering support and a safe space to be completely themselves.

She found joy in the simple things—fishing, camping, and being near the water, especially on the souped-up paddle boat she and her fiancé, Dustin, turned into their floating fishing haven. When she wasn’t outdoors, she was bringing color and creativity into the world, whether through her artistic talents, her love of makeup and hair, or her collection of bright and sparkly things (especially if they were pink).

Kari took great pride in her accomplishments, from purchasing her first home, on her own, her excellent credit score and being a lead sterile processing technician for Sanford. But more than anything, she cherished the time spent with those she loved. Whether it was shopping, watching movies, cruising the loop, or giggling over inside jokes, she had a way of making every moment special. She and her cousin Nick shared a love for B horror movies—laughing at their cheesiness and finding joy in the absurd.

Her bravery knew no bounds. As a child, she didn’t hesitate to jump into a lake to save her younger cousin from drowning—a perfect reflection of who she was: selfless, fearless, and always putting others before herself. Kari, affectionately known as Auntie Kiki, loved spending time with her nieces and nephews.

Kari is survived by her mother, Beth Brantner; her fiancé, Dustin Watterud; her siblings, Katy Peterson and her children, Reece, Maya, Annika, and AJ, her half-brother Caleb Brantner (Lacy); her grandmother, Donna Peterson; her uncle and aunt, Mike and Lynn Brantner; her cousins, Nick Brantner and Madi Muchlinski (husband Joey and son Brody); and her best friend, Kari Maanum. She also leaves behind her beloved four-legged companions, (Gabby, Gus, Lexi and Bliss) who were as much a part of her family as anyone.

She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Vernon Peterson; her fiancé, Andrew Nelson; her grandmother, Marge Brantner; and her grandfather, Casey Brantner.

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 7th, 2025 at Wright Funeral Home in Moorhead, MN, with visitation at 10 AM and a service to follow at 11 AM. In honor of Kari’s kind personality, those attending are encouraged to wear anything pink—her favorite color. Kari’s spirit will live on in the memories of those lucky enough to know her, in the laughter shared over ridiculous movies and in the sparkle of something pink and glittery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Homeward Animal Shelter in Fargo, ND.