Stella Karges

Stella M. (Thorstenson) Karges, 105, of Fargo, ND, died Wednesday, December 29, 2021, at JB Homes Assisted Living in Lakeville, MN. Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, January 11, 2022, at 11:00 AM at Old West Paint Creek Cemetery in rural Waukon, IA, with Rev. John Brecount officiating. Celebrations of life will be held at later dates. Martin-Grau Funeral Home in Waukon, IA, is handling arrangements.

Stella Marie Karges was born May 3, 1916, in Brinsmade, ND, the daughter of Edward O. and Ida Sophia (Gjefle) Thorstenson. She grew up in the Minnewaukon, ND area, was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran church, and in 1936, graduated from Minnewaukon High School. Stella then earned her beautician license, owned and operated New Image Beauty Salon in Fargo, ND, and did hair for 70 years before retiring at the age of 92. She was married to James C. Karges, but they eventually divorced.

She lived a long, rewarding, and productive life. Stella enjoyed traveling, visiting with family and friends, and was a member of the North Dakota Board of Cosmetology and the Sons of Norway. An avid baker, Stella loved making Christmas cookies. She also enjoyed crafts and was a proud supporter of North Dakota State University.

Stella is survived by her son David B. Karges and his wife Cheryl L. Spath-Karges of Prior Lake, MN, and many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings: Eilert (Charlotte), Geneva, Ingvald, Alvin, and Floyd (Maxine) Thorstenson, Selma Thorstenson McCulloch, Otto (Eleanor) Thorstenson, and Wilma (Brent) Knudson.