Karen Johnson

Karen Kay Johnson, age 67 of Alexandria, MN, died in her home on Saturday, September 24.

Karen was born on November 6, 1954, to parents Carrie (Parker) and Ervin Johnson.  She was the second oldest of five siblings.   Preceded into death by her father Ervin and mother Carrie, and sister-in-law Deborah (Randy Johnson).  Survived by sisters Connie (David Hovendick), and Jody, her brothers Randy and Jeff, by seven nieces and nephews and their many children.

She graduated from high school in 1972. She went to undergraduate at Bemidji State University, St. Cloud State University and graduated from the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis in 1976.  She was a legal assistant in Des Moines, Iowa from 1977-1984, where she was the president of the State of Iowa Paralegal Association.  Ready for a new challenge, she returned to Law School at the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis and earned her Doctorate in Juris Prudence in 1987.

She worked as a residential and commercial closer at Dakota County Abstract in Apple Valley.  She lived in Apple Valley, and then Rosemount, MN until she retired in November 2019.  She built a new house in the spring of 2020, and moved to Alexandria, MN to be closer to family and to enjoy the lakes area.

Karen loved an adventure and she loved to travel.  Some of her favorite places were the North Shore Drive near Duluth, MN, the Rocky Mountains in Montana and Wyoming.  She loved going on vacations with family to places all over the United States.  She loved shopping for unique art at local shops and has many beautiful art pieces in her new home.

Karen was a fierce friend and advocate.  When it came to her family and friends, she celebrated every accomplishment, no matter how big or small.  When others were going through hard times, she cried with them.  She also loved to laugh.  One of her favorite pastimes was gathering with family or meeting friends to share a great meal over good conversation.  She cared immensely about current events and keeping up with what was happening in the world.

She cheered on the underdog and believed strongly in defending those who could not defend themselves.  As a supporter of the humane society, she was a champion for animals or pets that had been mistreated or left behind.  She had 2 cats, Jordan and Sergei (who was a rescue cat).

Those who would like to honor Karen with a memorial contribution are asked to send your gifts to the Lakes Area Humane Society.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 2, 2022, 2:00 – 5:00 PM at the Anderson Funeral Home.  Visitation will continue on Monday, October 3, 2022, 10:00 – 11:00 AM at the Anderson Funeral Home with the Memorial Service at 11:00 AM.