Karen Christine Stephens

She was born May 15, 1938 and raised in the small town of Coin, Iowa, to Clinton & Hazel Whitmore Goodman. She lovingly thought the 40’s & 50’s era was the best. She loved the Methodist Church where she attended Sunday school and services. In high school, she sang in the girl’s sextet, and sang duets with her sister at the Methodist Church. Karen also had the honor of being one of the baton twirlers in both junior and senior high school. She graduated from high school in 1956.

On August 3, 1958 Karen was united in marriage to Donald C. Stephens in Shenandoah, Iowa. She was an active member of the First Christian Church and loved the Esther Circle Bible Study hosting the ladies in her home. She was a patron in “Eastern Star” in Shenandoah. Karen’s passion was baking and trying old and new recipes. She also loved picnics, camping trips, and road trips with her family.

Karen worked for 15 years between Furr’s Cafeteria, Foleys and Macys in Fort Collins, CO. She worked in the ladies and children’s clothing, and handbag departments. She achieved her “Diamond Star” and re-earned the covenanted award every year thereafter as well as being in “The President’s Club”. She loved the fellowship with her co-workers and other associates.

Those left to cherish her memory include her son, David (Tricia) Stephens of St Paul, NE; son, Dennis Stephens and Shirley Valente, of Thornton CO; and daughter, Karlene Stephens of Thornton CO; her grandchildren, Brent (Nikki) Stephens, Angus (Michaela) Stephens, and Natalie (John) Castro; five great grandchildren, Liam, Mason, Briella, Noah and Aden; two wonderful sisters, Jeanette (Larry) Jones of Chandler, AZ, and Sherry Flynn of Branson, MS.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, Clinton and Hazel Goodman; husband, Donald Stephens; and brother-in-law, Ivan Flynn.

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