Karen Swenson

Karen Marie Swenson passed away on Saturday, June 11, 2016 after a brave battle with cancer. A visitation will be held from 9-10:30 a.m., Thursday, June 16, 2016 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church (517 SW Des Moines St., Ankeny, IA 50023). A celebration of life will begin at 10:30 a.m., on Thursday, June 16, 2016 following visitation. A graveside service will be held at 1:45 p.m., Thursday, June 16, 2016 in the Radcliffe Cemetery in Radcliffe, IA.

Karen was born in Fort Dodge, IA to Leonard and Sadie (Swenson) Lundberg. She graduated from Central Webster High School in Burnside, Iowa. She continued her education at AIB in Des Moines. She married the love of her life, Howard Swenson, at The Little Brown Church in Nashua on August 26, 1967. They were blessed with one daughter, Lisa Shaeleen, who is in her 15th year of teaching at Dallas Center-Grimes.

Karen worked as a receptionist for an orthodontist for several years, but her primary occupation was assisting Howard on the family farm. On most days, you could find her driving loads to town, plowing in the field, or mowing the large yard. Karen had a knack for gardening, decorating her home, and spending time with the many pets that lived on the farm.

Karen enjoyed a variety of music and loved to dance, she found excitement in attending shows and plays. Her love for the St. Louis Cardinals is second only to attending her grandsons' baseball games. She was a member of several golf leagues and also participated in several tournaments. She was a member of the Red Hat Society. She liked to travel, both at home and abroad. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family and friends.

Karen is survived by her daughter; Lisa and son-in-law Andy Maifeld of Ankeny, IA, grandsons; Jayden and Cole Maifeld, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

Karen was preceded in death by her husband; Howard, parents; Leonard and Sadie, sisters; Shirley and LaVona.

Memorial contributions may be made to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

Online condolences and thoughtful memories can be shared on Karen’s page at www.ankenyfuneralhome.com