Our beautiful mother, Karen Sue Swensen Nelson, gained final victory over Alzheimer's disease on March 18, 2015, leaving this world peacefully, surrounded by her children. Karen was born on July 7, 1943 to Arthur Lavern Swensen and Ona Marie Shields, who were surprised with twins, also welcoming a baby boy, Kent. Karen was raised in Murray, Utah and graduated from Murray High School in 1961.
In 1965 she went on a blind date and met her love, Cliff Lynn Nelson. They married on Sept. 16, 1965. Together they had four children: Paula, Nancy, Brenda and Collin. They built a home in Sandy, Utah in 1974 and always took great pride in it. Cliff was tragically killed in an Army helicopter crash in August of 1982, leaving Karen a young widow. After his death, Karen went back to school and graduated from the University of Utah in 1992. She retired from Salt Lake County in 2006 where she worked as a Justice Court Clerk. She was a member of the LDS church and served in many callings.
Karen has eight beautiful grandkids: Cameron, Tyler, Courtney, Carson, Caroline, Bryson, Brenlee, and Bryler, who brought her incredible joy and happiness. She never missed an event in which they were participating. She adores and loves them each very much. Karen is an Aunt, cousin, and loyal friend to many. She was tall, strong, classy, and beautiful. She was a hard worker, private, independent, smart, and funny. A talented seamstress, gardener, decorator, and cook; she was successful at anything she decided to tackle. She overcame adversity and trials with poise and grace, an example to many and someone to be admired.
Karen is survived by her children: Paula Jarvis (Brian), Nancy Whittaker, Brenda Nelson, and Collin Nelson; brothers: Jaren Swensen (Shirley), and Kent Swensen; In-laws Phyllis Nelson, Chad Nelson (Elaine), Adella Nelson, Stanton Nelson (Marilyn), Terrel Nelson (Rhea), Garn Nelson (Ida), Grace Nelson, and Iris Hales (Don). She is preceded in death by her parents, and husband Cliff.
Services will be held on Monday, March 23, 2015 at 11:00 A.M. at the Crescent 8th ward chapel 2080 E. Pinecrest Lane (11530 S.) in Sandy, Utah. Friends may call at the church from 10:00-10:45, or on Sunday March 22, 2015 from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at Larkin Sunset Gardens 1950 E. 10600 S. Interment Redmond Cemetery, Redmond, Utah.
