Kathleen Arvilla Kabage

Kathleen Arvilla Kabage, 95, died on March 22, 2020, at Field Crest Care Center in Hayfield, MN. Kathleen was born at home on May 25, 1924, the daughter of Henry and Cora (Johnson) Estby in Mower County, MN. She began her education in a rural one-room schoolhouse, later graduating from Hayfield High School. Kathleen was united in marriage to Curtis Kabage on December 5, 1942, in Hayfield, MN.

The young couple purchased their farm in Vernon Township in 1948. They farmed together until retiring in 1978, at which time they moved into their home in Hayfield. At that same time, they purchased a lake cabin on Third Crow Wing Lake near Park Rapids, splitting time between both locations. Kathleen and Curt loved to travel in their motorhome, taking many trips around the country, further widening their horizons by taking cruises to distant locations. Kathleen and Curt were avid snowmobilers, loved fishing in northern Minnesota with friends and family, and enjoying the festivals in Branson, MO.

Kathleen was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, active in Circle, as well as various service groups. She enjoyed sewing, crocheting, knitting and doing Norwegian hardanger, sharing her creativity with her family and others. After Curt passed away in 2013, Kathleen could be found gardening, tending her flowers, and continuing to mow her lawn with her John Deere riding lawnmower well after the age of 90. With her extended family she continued to travel north to Little Sand Lake near Park Rapids and visit Venice, Florida during the cold months. Kathleen continued living in her home on Main Street until 2020.

Kathleen is survived by her son, Daryle Kabage, Farmington, MN; daughter, Linda (Wayne) Gaustad, Park Rapids, MN; five grandchildren; Renee (John) Marlenee, Michelle (Gene) Ronnebaum, Mark Gaustad, Melissa (Jeremy) Peterson, Daniel Gaustad (Jessa Walters); seven great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Curtis. Blessed be her memory.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.