Kari Lynn Peterson

Kari Lynn Peterson, age 60, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away on September 29, 2026, at Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato.

Kari was born on September 9, 1966, in Austin, Minnesota, to Lynn Mytten and Joyce Schmidt. She attended grade school in Austin and spent part of her childhood into her early adult years in California before returning to Austin. Kari worked in healthcare for many years as a PCA and in dietary services, caring for residents in care centers and group homes.

Kari married Richard Peterson on June 16, 1995, in Las Vegas. They shared many happy years together until Richard's death in 2013. She loved spending time with family and friends and was known as a social butterfly. Kari especially loved her sons, Collin and Kyle, and was the best stepmom to Sara. She enjoyed trips to the Mississippi River, sunbathing on the sandbar, listening to 80s music—especially Journey—and had a love for animals. Her cooking will be missed, especially her hamburger soup. She loved baking and teaching her granddaughter, Maggie, how to make her famous cookies. Kari will be remembered for her love of family, her beautiful small and infectious giggle, and the joy she brought to those around her.

Kari is survived by her sons, Collin Peterson of Stacyville, Iowa, and Kyle Peterson of Austin, Minnesota; stepdaughter, Sara (Brad Riha) Peterson of Austin; granddaughter, Maggie Olson; siblings, Derek Lerum of Hayward, Korin (Andy) Ball of Austin, and Tami Minotte; siblings-in-law, Roger (Candace) Peterson and Mary (Pete) Hyland; nieces and nephews, Dustin Lerum, Cerise Lerum, Kenley Ball, Kayla Ball, Charlie Ball, Austin Ball, and Lilly Hyland; and stepfather, Craig Lerum of Austin.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Peterson; her mother, Joyce Lerum; and her father, Lynn Mytten.

A graveside service will be held in Oakwood Cemetery, Austin, Minnesota at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 9, 2026. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.