Kristen "Kristi" M. Carlson

Kristen M. Carlson, age 48, passed away Sunday, August 24, 2025, at the local hospital.

Kristen Marie Carlson was born in Danville, IL to Kenneth and Shirley Hinkle on February 5, 1977. Kristi was raised with her three siblings, Chuck Hinkle, Rich Hinkle, and Nicky Willard. Together they grew up in Dunnington, IN where Kristi would fall in love with the plains of the Midwest.

Kristi was a prolific and gifted artist whose talents touched countless lives. Over the course of her career, she received numerous awards for her artwork, particularly her breathtaking landscape paintings that captured the beauty of the Midwest. At the time of her passing, she was working on a book featuring her paintings of old Catholic churches from the Sioux Falls Diocese, a project that combined her artistry with her love of history and faith. Generous with her talents, Kristi often gave her paintings freely to friends and family, leaving behind treasured gifts of her spirit and creativity.

In addition to her art, Kristi had a passion for restoration and dedicated much time and care to preserving her 1886 Victorian home. She was also a devoted wife and mother, having married her high school sweetheart, Jeremy, in 1998. Together they built a loving family and raised three children, Chloe, Alex, and Ian, who were the center of her world. Over the years, Kristi and Jeremy moved their family to Humboldt, IA, and later to Watertown, SD, where they continued to make lasting memories. Kristi’s home was filled with warmth, laughter, and the joy of shared memories, reflecting the kindness and devotion she poured into every part of her life.

Kristi will be remembered for her radiant smile, quick laughter, and the compassion she showed to everyone she met. She had a special love for cats, and her loyal companion, Yuki, a big white tomcat, was rarely far from her side. Her presence brightened every room she entered, and her generosity and gentle spirit left a lasting impression on those who knew her.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Jeremy, and their children, Chloe, Alex, and Ian. Kristi’s life was a beautiful masterpiece, and while she is dearly missed, her legacy of love, creativity, and kindness will live on in her family, her art, and all the lives she touched.

Funeral Mass will be held at 11am (EST) at St. Mary's catholic Church, Dunnington, IN with Fr. Sean Aaron officiating.

Arrangements entrusted to Gerts, Windler & Keller Funeral Homes ~ Fowler Chapel 506 E. Main St., Fowler, IN 47944. (765) 884-0110 www.kellerfh.com