Kaitlynn Kukuska

Kaitlynn Marie Kukuska, 21, of Red Wing, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, October 5, 2024 at the Mayo Clinic Health Systems - Red Wing Campus. She was born on June 22, 2003 in Red Wing, Minnesota. Kaitlynn graduated from Red Wing High School on June 3, 2022.

Kaitlynn was known for her big white bow, that she wore wherever she went. The nurses knew Kaitlynn was there as soon as they saw her walk through the door. The relationship Kaitlynn had with her grandmother, Shirley, was like no other. They loved spending their days together, holding hands. Kaitlynn found her vacations to Clearwater, Florida and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina to be so calming. She loved the sound of the waves and the feel of the wind on her face. She enjoyed the aquarium in Myrtle Beach. She sat watching the variety of fish swim and was so focused on them.

Kristi was Kaitlynn’s whole world. They had an undeniable connection. When Kristi would sing to Kaitlynn, her eyes would focus to Kristi’s face and she would listen so intently. She would squeeze Kristi’s hand as a sign of her affection to her mom and would pull Kristi to her, as if to try for a hug or snuggle. Kaitlynn was not a cuddly girl, but she would try, desperately to get her mom to comfort her during her hospital stays. Kristi feels her heart is breaking into a million pieces losing Kaitlynn. We pray God gives her strength and guidance in her grief journey.

Preceded in joining the lord; Landen Carroll, Donald (Marion) Larson, Arnold (Gweneth) Olson, and Stanley Kukuska.

Kaitlynn is survived by her loving mother, Kristi Olson Kukuska; brother, Zachary (Kyle) Kukuska; grandparents, James (Shirley) Olson; aunt, Jennifer (Matthew) Carroll; and cousins, Brynnlee and Haddlee Carroll. Also survived by her father, Jeffery Kukuska; grandmother, Delphine (Donnie) Kukuska; aunt, Stacy (Josh) Kiefer; and cousin, Savannah Kiefer.

Memorial service will be 10 a.m., Thursday, October 10, 2024 at United Lutheran Church in Red Wing. Online condolences may be left at www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com