Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Karen Johnson Anderson


Karen Johnson Anderson
Date Of Birth: June 8, 1948
Date Of Death: July 27, 2009
Service Date: Saturday, August 1, 2009 at 11:00 a.m.
Karen J. Anderson triumphed in life, and then passed on to be reunited with her husband and loved ones on July 27, 2009.
Karen was born to Edward Anthon (Ted) Johnson and Mary LaRue Hone Johnson on June 8, 1948. She was a beautiful child with curly blonde hair and bright blue eyes. Many of her early memories center on being with her father, herding sheep up Diamond Fork Canyon. Karen graduated from Spanish Fork High School and BYU, receiving her degree in Elementary Education. Later in life she returned to BYU to finish a Masters Degree in Reading. She found her eternal companion, Ed, while attending BYU. They were sealed eternally June 12, 1970 in Manti, Utah. Their marriage has been one of love, sacrifice, and optimism.
Karen loved reading and children. She carefully balanced her role as mother, with her occupation as teacher. For many years she taught first grade, helping many inquisitive 5 & 6 year old children learn how to read. She remembered each one of them. Later in life she taught reading to other teachers as a literacy specialist in Nebo School District. The friendships she made during this job will be eternal.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was a fundamental part of Karen's life and she served faithfully wherever called. She served as Stake Relief Society President, Gospel Doctrine Teacher, and Ward Relief Society President numerous times. She knew how to serve quietly and lovingly. Karen loved her ancestors and spent the last couple of years compiling books of histories. Karen and Ed raised 6 children who love and honor their mother and who have found great joy being able to serve her. It was impossible not to love Karen.
Karen is survived by her six children, Kristy (Mike) Robertson, David, Boas, McKay (Allison), Nord (Wren), and Whitney; grandchildren, Alenia, Seth, Dane, Brielle, Tate and Mitch Robertson, Henry Anderson, and two on the way. She is also survived by her brothers, Kent (Linda) Fulmer, Lee (Denise) Johnson; and sisters, Lynne (Owen) Harrison, and Julie (Dave) Christianson; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
The past three years Karen has had cancer, she asked that her "cancer blessings" be shared. She has learned charity from others, and made many new friends. She is grateful for the small things we often take for granted, and has learned to rely on the Lord. She had time to prepare for death and has gathered her family often to let them know how much each member is loved. Karen didn't want bitterness, only joy, hope, and love.
Karen asked specific thanks go to her angel sister, Lynne, who has walked each step of the way with her; also, Dr. Wendy Breyer, Mandi, Paula, and Janis; and Vista Hospice, Dr. Gary Garner, Nancy, Rose Mary, Marci, Burt, and Sue for their love, kindness, and concern.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 1, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at 300 E. Center Street, in Spanish Fork. Friends may call Friday evening from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Walker Family Mortuary, 187 South Main Street, Spanish Fork or on Saturday morning at the church from 9:45-10:45 a.m. prior to services.

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