Karen Lorraine Taylor, 57

Karen “left this earth to be Heaven’s Hairdresser” on Dec. 24, 2010, in Kalispell, after a courageous battle with cancer.

She is survived by her loving husband, Lyle; son, Andrew; stepdaughters, Monica and Dorelyn, six beautiful grandchildren; mother, Betty; siblings, David and Betty; and many other loved ones, family and friends alike; with a special thanks to Tina, her oldest niece, whom she cherished very much.

Karen was born on Oct. 4, 1953, to Betty and Warren Stevens in Port Angeles, Wash., and raised on the Olympic Peninsula. She graduated Sequim High in 1971 and, subsequently, beauty school.

Karen worked as a beautician for many years, touching many lives in the special way that only she could.

In 1980 her son Andrew was born, he was and is the apple of her eye. He blessed her with three grandchildren. She was very proud of Andy and his family; they gave her great joy.

She was an active member in the Peninsula Long Rifles shooting club. Karen was a very accomplished shooter, a loyal NASCAR fan and an avid supporter of local racer Rocky Erickson. She met Rocky and his family, whom she loved like family, soon after meeting the love of her life, Lyle, in 1998 during a trip to Montana. While there, she fell in love with the state and the man. To go along with Lyle she gained a daughter, Monica, with her three lovely children. Monica is a “saint” for going above and beyond with her help during Karen's illness.

She began her career in Sequim and later joined the team at the JCPenney’s Salon where she spent several years before moving to Montana. She continued her career there until present day, making many lifelong friends along the way. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Lyle, Andy and the family would like to thank the entire staff at Kalispell Regional Medical Center, Dr. Ward and associates, the team at JCPenney’s, the local community and all others involved with her care.

At Karen's request there will no services.