Karen E. Petersen, age 68 of Coon Rapids, passed away on Sunday, March 11, 2018 in Florence, Arizona.

Anyone who knew Karen, knew she had the biggest heart.  She always had a smile on her face, an ear to listen, and made time for everyone.  She was a dedicated and loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend.  In her childhood years, Karen lived in Thief River Falls, MN and then moved to Anoka, MN, graduating from Anoka High School.  She met David and they later married; ultimately celebrating 48 years of marriage.  To this union, two children, Bobby and Brenda were born. Then came grandchildren - which are her pride and joy; she adored them!  Karen committed herself to doing whatever she could to help her kids with their children.  She was the best Grandma ever, and truly loved all children.

Karen was involved with many volunteer committees:  President of the Mercy Hospital Auxiliary, Hospice, Sharing and Caring Hands, President of Tuscany Villas II Association, and many church activities.  Karen had many hobbies; she loved gardening, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, horseback riding, traveling, walking with her beloved dog Tiesha, visiting with friends and family, and laying in the sun!  AND... who could forget her baking!!!!  Is there anyone who hasn't had one of her pies, cookies, bars, cakes or FUDGE!  She is up in Heaven baking already!

Karen and David had a lake cabin in Longville, MN for 26 years.  The memories and friendships made there will be forever in our hearts.  Because they loved the sun much more than the snow, Karen and David began spending winters in Florence, AZ, making many new friendships and memories.

For those of us still on Earth, we will miss this beautiful lady immensely.  "We Love You Karen: you will forever be in our hearts!!!!!"

In addition to her parents, Leo and Elayne (Brekke) Pahlen, Karen was preceded in death by infant siblings, Dale and Teresa; and brother, Rick.  She is survived by her loving husband of 48 years, David; son, Bobby (Beth); daughter, Brenda (Gary) Daudt; grandchildren, Ashlee, Cody, Mitchell, and Sam; siblings, Dolly, Bobby, Peggy, and Mary Ella; also many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 20, 2018 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 19921 Nightingale Street NW, Cedar.  Visitation 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. on Monday, March 19, 2018 at Thurston-Lindberg Funeral Home, 2005 Branch Avenue, Anoka, and one hour prior to Mass at church on Tuesday (10:00 - 11:00 a.m.)  Interment St. Patrick Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Allina Hospice Program or Sharing & Caring Hands.

Arrangements entrusted to Thurston-Lindberg Funeral Home of Anoka (763) 421-0220