Kassey Lee Culbert

Kassey Lee Culbert, age 43, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2025, surrounded by her family. Kassey was born on December 11, 1981, to Jeffrey and Deanna (Klingfus) Culbert. Growing up, she enjoyed spending time with her sister and their neighborhood friends. She had countless stories she could tell.

In 1998, Kassey became a mother to Haley, her proudest accomplishment. She was a single mom who worked hard to give Haley everything she needed and more. In 2004, Kassey was diagnosed with leukemia; she won that battle for several years. In 2010, she met the love of her life, Eric. A few months later, her leukemia returned. She received a bone marrow transplant in April 2011 which gave her another 14 years to experience and enjoy life.

Kassey and Eric built a beautiful life and home together. She loved hosting family get-togethers, as well as spending time in their pool. She cherished time with all her family, especially watching Haley grow up. Not only was Kassey an amazing mom, but she was also Haley's best friend. They did everything together, enjoying hair days, shopping trips, Friday nights at El Mariachi's, pumpkin patch trips to Wisconsin, and so much more.

One of Kassey's passions was decorating. She was incredibly talented at decorating her home, making it cozy and welcoming for everyone, especially for the holidays. Christmas was a favorite for Kassey; she would play holiday music or her favorite classic rock while decorating and baking. Kassey's favorite spot in the house was the kitchen, whether it was enjoying a cup of coffee, baking, cooking or trying new recipes. Family favorites included sugar cookies, Oreo truffles, and Stromboli to just name a few. She would make special treat boxes for family and friends that she would deliver. Her favorite thing to do and something she was incredibly good at was making people happy. Even in the midst of combating many different health issues, she had a smile on her face, she was positive, caring, and would do absolutely anything for anybody. Kassey made everyone feel like family.

Kassey was also a devoted daughter, sister, and aunt. She never missed a sports event and was her niece’s biggest fan. She loved to get her nails done with her mom, Kassey's favorite color was pink, but regardless of what color her nails were, she always had to have glitter or as she would call it "sparkles”.

Kassey will be remembered as brave, courageous, sassy, strong, kind, and the most selfless person you will ever meet. We are extremely proud of her, and we will cherish our memories with Kassey forever.

She is survived by her partner, Eric Andersen; daughter, Haley Culbert (Jon Diggins); granddog, Nina; mother, Deanna Culbert; father, Jeffrey (Tenia) Culbert; sister, Chrissy (Vern) Bauer; brother, Cody Williams; stepsisters, Kaiya Martin and Tori (Kyle) Opsahl; niece, Miley Bauer; nephew, Lincoln Opsahl; and aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, David and Dorothy Klingfus, and Mel and Evelyn Culbert; and aunt, Valinda Crews.

A celebration of life for Kassey will be held at a later date. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes are assisting the family with arrangements.