Karen Lauren

SCHOFIELD, Wis. - Karen Lauren, 77, of Gurney, went into the presence of our Lord on Nov. 20, 2019.

Karen was born on May 26, 1942, in Saxon to Hilding and Ruth Norman. Karen graduated from Saxon High School in 1960. Karen started dating Barry when she was 15, and they fell in love. They were married in 1961. Karen and Barry resided in Gurney their whole life and raised 6 wonderful children.

Karen and Barry lived out their deep love affair their whole life and were always together whether it was grading potatoes, walking on the farm or dancing together. They always honored each other and were a wonderful example to their family and friends.

Karen was an elder and clerk at the Saxon Community Church. Mom loved all holidays, especially Christmas and Easter. She welcomed everyone into her home and always had bars and snacks on the kitchen table. She spent her whole life caring for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was also passionate about caring for all others. Karen worked as a caregiver for home health organizations and also cared for anyone in her community with the door always open. Karen loved the winter season and loved making a snowman. The families wish this winter season, in honor of mom, for everyone to make a snowman and grab a cup of coffee (with a lot of cream) and enjoy it with someone special.

Karen is preceded in death by her parents, Hilding and Ruth Norman; her husband, Barry; grandson, John; great-granddaughter, Natalie; sisters, Norma, Marvel and Shirley; and brothers, Alan and Gene.

Karen is survived by her children, Jeff (Beth) Lauren, Mark (Susan) Lauren, Kari (Dave) Luoma, Traci (Gordy) Hamberg, Leslie (Dan) Luoma and Rod (Leah) Lauren. She has been blessed with 28 grandchildren and 45 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by brothers and sisters, Arlene, John, Joan, Bruce and Mary.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 26, at noon at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ironwood, Mich., with Pastor Jordan Balk officiating, preceded by a visitation from 10 a.m. until noon.

The graveside committal will occur after services in Gurney, Wis., at Edgewood Cemetery. Pastor Jordan Balk will officiate the ceremony.

McKevitt-Patrick Funeral Home, Ironwood, is assisting the family. For more information or to express online condolences, visit mckevittpatrickfuneralhome.com.