Donley, Karen Lee

January 28, 1947 – October 18, 2019
Age 72 of Coon Rapids, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2019, at her home of a cardiac event. Born Jan. 28, 1947 to Warren and Laura Donley, Karen was the fifth of six children. Karen was baptized and confirmed at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria. In 1965, Karen graduated from Jefferson Senior High School in Alexandria. In 1969, she earned a B.S. degree from Moorhead State University. She also earned a M.S. degree from St. Cloud State University. Teaching English and Literature at Jackson Middle School and Blaine High School was a joy for Karen, as were the strong friendships she developed with fellow teachers and staff. Karen is survived by sister Dorothy (DeWayne) Bisek of Nelson, MN., brother William (Carol) Donley of Williamsville, NY. She has nine nieces and nephews who loved her dearly. She is also survived by close friends with whom she loved to vacation, travel and attend Minnesota Lynx games. All in her life miss her sense of humor, generosity and her kind heart. Karen is proceeded in death by her parents, sisters Barbara and Kathryn, brother Paul and great-nephew Jordan. All are welcome at a celebration of Karen’s life, which will be held on November 23, 2019 from 2:00 – 4:00 PM, at Applewood Pointe of Champlin at Mississippi Crossings, 345 E. River Entry, Champlin, MN 55316. Burial will take place at Kinkead Cemetery in Alexandria, MN, on November 25, 2019 at 10:30 AM. (Published in the Star Tribune November 3, 2019)