Connie Mae Kachena

Connie M. Kachena, 54, of Grand Forks, ND, passed away Saturday, January 22, 2011 surrounded by her family at Altru Hospital of Grand Forks. Connie was born on April 10, 1956 in Park River, ND, the daughter of Angeline (Hodny) and the late Frank Kachena. She grew up Park River and graduated from Park River High School in 1974. Connie worked as a nurses aid (CNA) and loved taking care of people. Connie loved spending time with her grandchildren, Guy and her dog, Mandy. She enjoyed fishing, camping, visiting family, campfires, playing cards, watching wheel of fortune and attending family get-togethers. Connie is survived by her son, Sean (Brandi) Kirkeby of Universal City, TX; daughter, Shannon (Tim) Balzam of Fargo, ND; longtime companion, Guy Benson of Grand Forks; mother, Angeline of Park River; sisters, Laurie Loeffler of Grand Forks, Linda (Steve) Onstad of Grand Forks, Teresa (David) Erickson of Grafton, Jenny (Tim) McDonald of Grafton, Debbie (Steve) Fontaine of Park River, Pat (Len) Novak of Fallbrook, CA; brothers, Greg Kachena of Park River and Ron (Deb) Kachena of Yankton, SD; grandchildren, Keira, Timothy and Gabe, and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Frank; brother, Frankie; granddaughter, Kali and grandson, Dazmon. MEMORIAL SERVICES: 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 26, 2011 at Amundson Funeral Home 2975 S. 42nd St. Grand Forks, ND. VISITATION: the hour prior to the memorial service.