That smile- Karen brightened up a room. I am saddened by her passing. She was an amazing woman, nurse and a loving and proud Mom. I had the distinct pleasure to be one of Karen's supervisors at the Mayo Clinic- she was exceptional. The most caring and compassionate human being I was privileged to work with. 

Prayers for you all,

Teri Sanneman

Your loss of dear Karen is staggering. She was the very best college roommate and the years we lived together at Luther hold so many warm memories of laughing and crying together. She made my years there home. May her memory be a blessing. 

Karen was the kind of person who subtly shifted the people she met onto a better track just by being who she was. I’m lucky to have been shifted by her in this way several times, even though I only got to be around her sporadically. She gave immense service to the family she married into, and none of us can ever forget it. Like everyone else she shifted, I miss her terribly. Luckily, she gave us Luke and Anna and the serene, grown-up iteration of John, so we don’t have to move on entirely without her. Lots of love to the Shaffers and all who are grieving. 

Karen was truly such a special person. Wishing I could be there with you, and sending love to you all. 

Dear John and loved ones, 

Craig and I were saddened to hear of the loss of Karen...we are so sorry. I loved getting to know Karen while at Luther College - she always had welcoming hugs! Craig and I were both touched by her contagious joy and love for Christ when we worked together at Okoboji Lutheran Bible Camp. Karen will forever be remembered in our hearts. May God’s peace be with you. 

Dear John, Lucas and Anna, 

I am sorry to hear of the loss of your dear wife and mother.  What an amazing woman!  It was always my joy to see her and all of you sitting behind me in church.  Her faith in her Lord and Savior, and her love for her family was so strong and visible to everyone around her. I ask God to hold you in his loving arms as he now holds her. Praying for comfort and peace as you carry on as she would want you too. I’m out of town and so sorry I won’t be at the service. God bless. Alice??

Praying for peace and strength as you celebrate her life and legacy, Lucas and family. Your Spartan family is here for you during the difficult days ahead. 

Carrie Ekert Haakenson

I feel blessed for having known and worked with Karen. It was an honor for her to call me friend. The world needs more just like her.

God Bless

Susan Berge

I will always remember Karen's beaming smile, her infectious laugh, her amazingly blue eyes, kind heart, open arms and joyous way.  Her love for God and others abounded.  During our time at Luther, she was like a dear, dear sister.  I'm heartbroken at her passing, yet do not grieve as one without hope.  Our peace is knowing Karen is home in God's arms, patiently awaiting the day we can be together again.

I am so sorry for your loss.  May God's grace and peace provide you all with healing.

Dear Family, 

I wish there was something I could say to ease your pain. 

I didn't know Karen very well, but I know what kind of person she was.  She was a strong woman and fought physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually to beat her illness and remain with her loved ones. Her bravery knew no limits, but I have to believe there is a reason she was called home so soon.

Take comfort knowing she is no longer in pain and watching over all of you. Celebrate and cherish your wonderful memories and share them with one another. 

May God heal your hearts and watch over you always. 

Love, Denise and Family