Kala Karlene Henry, age 46, of Chaska, died Monday, November 24, 2025, at St. Francis Regional Medical Center in Shakopee, MN.
Kala was born September 17, 1979, in Viroqua, WI. She graduated from Winona Senior High School in 1999, and went on to attend National American University, earning a degree in Healthcare Coding. She was a hard worker, and throughout her life she worked for Amazon, Gold’n Plump, Polar Semiconductor, and most recently Door Dash. She enjoyed spending her time coloring and playing Candy Crush on her phone. She was very independent, and could navigate the Twin Cities by car, or light rail and bus. She loved driving and even took a road trip by herself to see the ocean in Galveston, Texas. Kala also liked to take trips to the Mall of America, where she would meet her companion and friend, and father to Benjamin, Matthew Schneider. The two enjoyed their visits, and window shopping together. She was a beloved daughter, sister, mother, and aunt. Kala was pure and innocent, and a sweet, fun spirited person who will be missed by all who knew her.
She is survived by her father, Dale (Christine) Henry; son, Benjamin Gray; siblings: Anna Ali, and Danielle (Curt) Fetting; niece, and nephews: Mahdi Ali, Veronica Fetting, and Gunner Fetting; aunts, and uncles: David Henry, Eldred Henry, Elaine (Daniel) Gray, Patrick Henry, Harlan Henry, and Carol (Rick) Kramer; step-siblings: Timothy (Andrea) Oldenburg, Tammie Oldenburg, and Benjamin Oldenburg; and many cousins.
Kala is preceded in death by her mother, Lois Bakkestuen; aunt and uncle, Leo and Loretta Bakkestuen; grandparents Clifford and Ardys Bakkestuen, and Evelyn and Elman Helgeson and Eldon Henry.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 6, 2025 at noon at Adoration Church, 535 16th St. South, La Crosse, WI. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. There will be a luncheon following the service at church.
Hoff Celebration of Life Center is assisting the family. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.hofffuneral.com
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