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As received from the Jacobson Funeral Home:
Karen Louise Swanson, age 73 of L’Anse, MI passed away on Thursday, November 18, 2021, at Baraga County Memorial Hospital.
She was born January 2, 1948, in St. Petersburg, FL daughter of Ralph Sherman and Helmi Turpeinen. She spent her younger years growing up on the Turpeinen Farm in Pelkie. Karen graduated from Baraga High School and married James Randall Swanson (Randy) on September 10, 1966, in Newberry, MI. They resided most of their married life in Baraga, living next door to Randy’s father Lyman Swanson. She was employed at Celotex as a payroll clerk for over 20 years until she retired to care for her mother Helmi. Recently, Karen and Randy moved to Huron Bay and enjoyed lake life and beautiful views of Lake Superior.
Karen and Randy spent many fun years RV-ing and seeing the country during retirement. They wintered in the Florida Keys—enjoyed ocean fishing and meeting up with friends. Karen also liked being busy doing projects. She enjoyed knitting, sewing, crocheting, crafting, stain glass, basket weaving, and flower gardening. Karen was an awesome cook and showed the grandkids how to make her famous dinner rolls, sweet rolls, fruit pies and cakes. She loved having her family over for dinners, often inviting friends to join in.
Surviving are her children, Scott (Kimberly) Swanson of L’Anse, Colleen (Greg) Harris of Green Bay, WI; grandchildren, Johanna (Mike) Tomcheck, Eli Harris, Autumn Swanson, Madissen Swanson (Brett Heikkila), and Natalie Swanson. Karen’s beloved husband Randy passed away in May of this year.
A graveside service will be held in the spring in the Baraga Cemetery. Jacobson Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Friends may sign Karen’s guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com. In lieu of memorials, the family suggests a contribution to a charity of your choice in Karen’s name.
