Watch Darlene's Memorial Mass

Darlene "Red" Krajsa, age 78, of Mahnomen, MN, passed away on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at Sanford Hospital in Fargo, ND.

Darlene was born on April 26, 1946, to M.T. and Anne (Brickzin) Jaeger in Mahnomen. She grew up in Mahnomen and was a graduate of Mahnomen High School. Darlene continued her education at Vera Duane's School of Hair Design in Minneapolis. She began her career as a beautician at Betty's Beauty Shop in Minneapolis, later working at Grace's Beauty Salon and Midtown Salon in Mahnomen. Eventually, Darlene fulfilled her dream of owning and operating Kountry Klipper Salon from her home.  On May 14, 1966, she married James Krajsa at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Mahnomen. Together, they made their home near Beaulieu and were blessed with six children. Darlene earned the nickname "Red" during her time working at the American Legion in Mahnomen. Later in life, she joined the team at the Shooting Star Casino, where her fun-loving and vibrant personality made her a perfect fit for guest services. Following her retirement in 2011, Darlene continued to keep busy within her community, bowling, crocheting, knitting, and spending time with her family and friends.

A devoted member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Darlene played the organ, co-chaired many raffles and fundraisers, and volunteered at countless church and funeral dinners. She was also a lifetime member of the American Legion Auxiliary, serving as both President and Girl State Representative, as well as a member of the National Catholic Society of Foresters.  Darlene had a passion for gardening, especially growing "her" tomatoes. Gambling was another of her favorite pastimes, and she made many fond memories with friends at the casino, often taking road trips to Grand Casino Mille Lacs.  Even as her health declined, Darlene's spunky personality and contagious smile continued to shine brightly, touching the hearts of all who knew her.

Darlene is survived by her loving husband, Jim of Mahnomen; five children: Sue (Daniel) Heim of Sartell, MN, Todd (Kelli Spencer) Krajsa of Cushing, MN, Earl (Debbie) Krajsa of St. Michael, MN, Kirby (Amy) Krajsa of Foley, MN, and Tina Davis of Fosston, MN; nine grandchildren: Michael (Megan) Heim, Anna Hiscock, Faith Krajsa, Joseph Krajsa, Ava Krajsa, Halle Krajsa, Brynn Krajsa, Charles Davis, Rylan Davis and; one brother, David Jaeger; and two brothers-in-law, Stanley (Joni Mark) Krajsa and Benny (Ann Lindblom) Zaviska.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one son, Adam; and sisters-in-law, Joyce Zaviska and Darlene (Leo) Zaviska.

A Time of Gathering will be held from 5:00-7:00 pm with a Prayer Service beginning at 6:30 pm on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Beaulieu, MN. A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, April 4, 2025, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church.  Inurnment will be held at St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery.