Karen Jo Gerhardson

Karen Gerhardson, age 53, of Marshall, Minnesota, died on Sunday, June 2, 2019, in the care of Avera Morningside Heights Hospice. Her closest friend, Nadine, was by her side as she answered the Lord's call to come home. Memorial Services are 3:00 p.m. Saturday, June 8, 2019, at St. Stephen Lutheran Church in Marshall, Minnesota. Visitation will be held after the memorial service, during a reception located in the church fellowship hall.

Karen was born on July 22, 1965. She grew up in the Twin Cities area, and after graduating from high school enlisted in the United States Army. She served her country in both Germany and in the United States as a Private. She was honorably discharged on September 16, 1988, and soon began her career in Human Services where she impacted and improved the lives of many over her 34-year career. Karen's calling in life was to help those in need, and she was highly successful in this.

Karen was a Foster Respite Care provider and active in the Big Buddy program--always reaching out to whoever needed her. She adored children and they adored her as well. She was a "surrogate" Grandma to many, but her pride and joy were her two little loves, Norah and Olivia. They will forever know their wonderful "Kaawin" as we will talk about her and teach them what an amazing person she was. Karen also loved animals and was passionate about animal rescue. Molly and Rufus were her constant companions and enjoyed "owning" her most of all. She was an enthusiastic crafter. Just a few of her hobbies included scrap booking, stained glass, making cards, and painting. Karen was also an avid reader and reveled in her book club each month.

Of all of the things she loved in life, her friends and family were loved the most. She was the kindest, funniest, most optimistic person anyone could hope to know. Her laughter and shenanigans were contagious and filled others with joy! She will be missed and loved until the end of time. Blessed be her memory.