Kathleen “Kathy” Carlon, age 76, of Brownsville, Minn., passed away peacefully on September 28, 2025, at Mayo Health Center in La Crosse, Wis., surrounded by her family.
Kathy was born on April 12, 1949, in La Crosse, Wis., to John and Alice (Kastner) Giblin. She grew up on a farm near Caledonia, Minn., graduated from Caledonia High School, and later attended Beauty School in Minneapolis, Minn. With her patient heart, warm smile, and knack for making everyone feel welcome, she owned and operated Cork Hollow Beauty Salon in Brownsville for many years, becoming not only a trusted stylist, but also a friend and confidant to so many in the community.
In 1972 she married the love of her life, Gary Carlon and together they raised their two children, Brent and Shelly. Kathy’s greatest joy was being a mother and grandmother. She adored her family, and her world lit up when spending time with her family, her friends, and her cat Sammy.
Kathy had a heart for people – she truly never met a stranger. She loved visiting with all sorts of different people. She enjoyed being a part of her community, where her laughter and good humor left a lasting mark.She had a gift for making those around her feel comfortable, cared for, and truly loved.
She also had many passions – she loved animals dearly, she enjoyed baking and sewing, and was a very talented listener. She was a prolific reader and always enjoyed a good story. Kathy’s faith was very important to her. She was a lifelong member of St. Patrick’s Parish in Brownsville, Minn.
Kathy is survived by her children Brent (Nicole) Carlon and Shelly (Kerry) Dixon, grandson John Carlon, brother Bob (Shirley) Giblin, her beloved husband Gary Carlon, and many dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, October 17, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Brownsville, Minn. Burial will follow a luncheon, at St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Brownsville, Minn. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. Thursday at St. Patrick’s Breza Hall, with a prayer service at 7 p.m. Visitation will also be before the service from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Friday. McCormick Funeral Home, Caledonia, is assisting the family and online condolences may be given at Mccormickfuneralhome.net.
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