Karen Shepard, 66

Karen Jean Shepard, formerly of Kalispell, was born to Jean and Lloyd Crowell on Nov. 25, 1942, in Detroit Lakes, Minn. She unexpectedly "went to be with the Lord" on Jan. 12, 2009.

Karen spent her early years growing up in Detroit Lakes. In 1960, she married Claude Kimes and gave birth to six beautiful children; but the couple separated. Shortly after, she met the love of her life, Jesse Shepard. On Oct. 6, 1972, they were wed, and their families combined to a grand total of 11 children. Karen continued to love and raise all of her 11 children, even after Jesse's tragic death May 15, 1982.

Throughout her life she continued to be the glue that held the family together with shared stories, laughter and love. She spent her final years residing in Walsenburg, Colo., but continued to travel from state to state, visiting her children, her family, and her friends.

Karen was preceded in death by her husband, Jesse Shepard; her parents, Lloyd and Jean Crowell; her brothers, Darryl and Michael Crowell; her brother-in-law, Jim Jolly; and Claude Kimes.

Karen is survived by her brother, Dave, and Nadia Crowell of Payson, Ariz.; and her sister, Kathy Jolly, of Sierra Vista, Ariz.; her children, Peg and Rick Lentz of Cypress, Texas, Shirley and Mel Cameron of Columbia Falls, Bud Shepard of Washington, Marshall and Diana Kimes of Liberty Lakes, Wash., Shorty and Gail Shepard of Columbia Falls, Monte and Carol Kimes of Chicago, Natalie Kimes and Caesar of New Mexico, Jesse and Amanda Shepard of Salem, Ore., Mike and Dawn Kimes of Post Falls, Idaho, Nadine and Bob Robbins of Kingman, Ariz., and Nikki and Bruce Eccher of Walsenburg; and her grandchildren, Alex, Amber, Anita, Bobby, Boots, Brooke, Carrie and Zach, Casey and Amy, Charlie and Ashley, Cheryl and Shane, Chris, Heather and Jeremy, Jamie, Jason, Jenny, Jessica, Josh, Justin, Karen, Karissa, Kenzie, Kim and Frank, Kristina, Lacie, Michael, Ricky, Ronnie and Justin, Russell, Sabrina, Tiff and Steve, Trevor, Tyler and Zane.

Karen is also survived by numerous beloved great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

Karen's life was celebrated by family and friends on Jan. 17. She will be remembered dearly. "We will hold her closely in our hearts while she goes to be with our Lord."

Her final resting place will be with her loving husband, Jesse, in Kalispell.

A graveside service will be held July 25 at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery in Kalispell.