Katherine Anne Allen (nee Larson), age 77, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2024, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Born on January 25, 1947, in Grand Rapids, she was the first child of Bernice (Rantala) and Holger Larson. Her sisters followed; Karen in 1948, Carol in 1950, and Kay in 1952, making Kathie the Big Sister, a role she embraced her entire life.

Kathie spent the school years of her childhood in Hibbing, Minnesota, but the Larson family spent the summer months at their lake property north of Nashwauk.  It was a wonderful childhood full of family and friends and grand adventures. Kathie was a long-time Girl Scout and competed in synchronized swimming and gymnastics.  After graduating from high school in 1965, she attended Hibbing State Junior College and Bemidji State University where she earned her Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education. In 1970 she married Joe Allen, the love of her life, who made her laugh every single day. Kathie and Joe settled into married life in Northfield MN where she taught physical education for several years. Eventually an opportunity to return "home" presented itself via a teaching and coaching position at Itasca Community College (now part of the Minnesota North College system) in Grand Rapids where she also became its first women's athletic director. She played a key role in forming one of the strongest state athletic associations for women. Among her achievements while at ICC were Outstanding Faculty Member and induction into the ICC and the Bemidji State Athletic Halls of Fame.  She also served as a member of the local Philanthropic Education Organization, a group that provides scholarships to young women seeking to advance their educations. The practice of her Christian faith has inspired Kathie throughout her life. She grew up attending Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Hibbing with her family. As an adult, she was an active member of the First United Church of Coleraine where she continued her faith journey. She has always welcomed opportunities to be a quiet witness and passionate contributor to her church family and her community.

Forever a learner herself, Kathie earned a Master of Science Degree in Education, a certification in holistic stress management, and started course work for her doctorate, enhancing her teaching, coaching, mentoring, and leadership skills. During the last years of her ICC career, she completed extensive training to become a Certified Life Coach. Following her retirement, Kathie started her own successful businesses, Insight Out Coaching and Kathie Allen Coaching. This career path was an extension of her natural ability and desire to help others and be of service. In all walks of her life, she was often heard asking, "Can I help you?"

Kathie was a devoted wife, daughter, sister, aunt, teacher, and friend. She touched the lives of many people who considered it an honor and privilege to know her.  Greeting everyone she knew, and some that she didn't, with an infectious smile and sincere greeting, she showed her generosity of spirit, her authenticity, her sensitivity to the needs of others, and her hopeful and trusting nature. Many an acquaintance became life-long friends.

She is survived by her husband, Joe Allen, of Grand Rapids, originally of Cass Lake, three sisters, Karen Cue (Chuck) of Windham, New Hampshire, Carol Latina of Oswego, Illinois, and Kay Hocking (Rich, deceased) of Apple Valley, Minnesota, as well as many cherished nieces, nephews and many extended family members. She is preceded in death by her father and mother, Holger and Bernice Larson.

A service of remembrance and celebration of Kathie's life will be held on Saturday, April 20th at 11:00 AM at the Community Presbyterian Church, 703 N. Pokegama Ave, Grand Rapids, with visitation beginning one hour prior to the service. A luncheon will be served immediately following the service. All who knew Kathie are invited to attend. Private interment at Itasca Calvary Cemetery will be held for immediate family only.  The family suggests that memorial contributions be directed to the Itasca Community College Foundation Allen Scholarship Fund. Always thinking of others, it was Kathie's wish that donations in her name continue to provide support for women pursuing a higher education.

ITASCA COMMUNITY COLLEGE FOUNDATION, Allen Scholarship

an independent 501(c)(3) charitable organization

1851 E Hwy. 169 • Grand Rapids, MN 55744-3397 | Phone: (218) 322-2451

https://www.iccfoundation.org/scholarships