Visitation: Visitation will be Friday, February 28, 2025 from 4-6 p.m., family present at 5 p.m., at Heritage Funeral Home, Sioux Falls, SD.
Service: A celebration of Karla’s life will be held at 6:00 p.m. Friday, February 28, 2025 at Heritage Funeral Home in Sioux Falls, SD.
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Karla Katherine Esser, 74, of Sioux Falls, SD, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 18, 2025 at Daugherty Hospice House, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on January 26, 1951, in Canton, SD, Karla was the daughter of Leo and Claretta Konietzko. She grew up alongside her beloved siblings, Steph (Curt) Stensland and Paul Konietzko, cherishing the bonds of family that remained strong throughout her life.
Karla dedicated much of her life to caring for others, working as a Radiologic Technologist at Sanford Hospital for most of her career. Later, she transitioned to a Patient Care Tech in the Avera Emergency Room, where her compassion and steady presence made a difference in countless lives.
In addition to her medical career, Karla had a thriving “second job” doing pedicures, which she affectionately referred to as her social life. Known for saying she “gave the best foot in town,” she built lasting friendships with her clients, who cherished her warmth, companionship, and kindhearted nature.
Karla was a devoted mother to Lisa (Steve) Esser and the late Leslie Esser, and a proud grandmother to Arien, Alivia, Addison, Aiden, Lily, and Lucy. She also held a special place in her heart for her nieces and nephew—Courtney Stensland, Cassidy (Bubba) Hawf, and the late Cade (Christina) Stensland.
In 2016, Karla was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, a battle she faced with unwavering strength and grace. In 2021, she received a life-saving kidney transplant, demonstrating her resilience and determination to embrace every moment with her family. Through it all, she remained a source of love, wisdom, and quiet strength.
Karla’s kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for her family defined her life. She had a gift for making people feel special, whether through her gentle care at work, her contagious smile and gentle spirit, or the simple joy of a perfectly polished pedicure. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A celebration of Karla’s life will be held at 6:00 p.m. Friday, February 28, 2025 at Heritage Funeral Home in Sioux Falls, SD. Visitation will be Friday, February 28, 2025 from 4-6 p.m., family present at 5 p.m., at Heritage Funeral Home. Memorials will be used for funeral & burial expenses.
OH HOW SAD. MAY GOD WRAP HIS LOVING AND CARING ARMS AROUND ALL OF KARLAS FAMILY AND GIVE THEM STRENGTH.
I am so sorry for the loss of your sister, Stephanie. My deepest condolences to you and all your family.
sending peayers and condolances to the family,may you remember the great times love what was and charish the next chapter in your lives,May she RIP.
So sorry for your loss!! Hugs and prayers for all!!!
I’m so sorry to hear this. Her mom talked about those pedicures all the time. Such a good lady
Rest in peace now dear classmate. You were always so kind & sweet to me & although we haven’t seen each other since graduation from CHS in 1969, I remember you well….until we meet again.❤️ My sincere condolences to your family during this difficult time. 🙏
Rest in peace now dear classmate. You were always so kind & sweet to me & although we haven’t seen each other since graduation from CHS in 1969, I remember you well….until we meet again.❤️ My sincere condolences to your family during this difficult time. 🙏
I am so sorry to hear of your sister’s death!
She was certainly a special woman to many and her kindness will be missed. Praying for you guys !