Karen Jensen, age 63, of Mahnomen, Minnesota, died after a long battle with cancer on Sunday, January 25, 2009 at the Twin Valley Living Center in Twin Valley, Minnesota.

Karen Elizabeth Jensen was born February 19, 1945 the daughter of Stanley and Gladys "Gay" (Person) Jensen, in Mahnomen. She grew up in Mahnomen and graduated from Mahnomen High School. Karen then attended college in Wisconsin for a time and later completed her teaching degree in Duluth, Minnesota. She returned home to Mahnomen in the early 1970s and began a teaching career at the Gary Public School in Gary, Minnesota. Over the years, Karen primarily taught Health and Physical Education but was involved with the Title I Program as well as coaching. In addition, she was employed part-time as a bartender at the American Legion in Mahnomen. Upon school redistricting, Karen continued to teach for the Norman County East High School in both Gary and Twin Valley. After working with children for 33 years, Karen retired from the school in June of 2006. She continued to make her home in Mahnomen, until her illness caused her to enter the Twin Valley Living Center last year.

Karen was truly a caregiver – devoted to caring for her mother and aunts. She continued this caring even after she and Gay moved to the Living Center together. Karen was deeply involved with her extended family and loved to visit with her cousins. She enjoyed golfing with friends and peaceful walks around the neighborhood with her mom and dog. You could often find Karen at the Red Apple Café where she enjoyed eating lunch. Known for her "one of a kind" sense of humor, Karen had a contagious laugh. She will be greatly missed by all of her family, former students and friends.

Karen is survived by her mother, Gay Jensen of Twin Valley and many cousins. She was preceded in death by her father, Stanley.

Funeral Services were held at 2:00 pm on Thursday, January 29, 2009 at St. Michaels Catholic Church in Mahnomen, with Fr. Rick Lambert officiating. Serving as pallbearers were Lance LaFriniere, Brent Gish, Barry Gish, Tim Kvale, Roger Grugel, and Bruce Slette. Bob Yanish served as song leader with Jackie Holstrom as pianist. Visitation was held on Thursday, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm, with a Rosary at 1:15, all at the St. Michael's Catholic Church in Mahnomen.