In Memoriam of Karen Sue Campbell

Karen Sue Campbell

November 1, 1955 - January 25, 2011

Karen Sue Earl Campbell, 55, died Jan. 25, 2011, surrounded by family and friends at West Park Hospital after a long battle with cancer.

She was born in Lincoln Neb., to Everett and Ann Earl on Nov. 1, 1955. Karen grew up in a career Air Force family and lived in a variety of places including Oklahoma, North Dakota, Nebraska and Puerto Rico.

In Puerto Rico in 1969, Karen met her future husband while they were attending high school. She married Jeffery Paul Campbell on July 29, 1972, in Tucson, Ariz., and they made their first home in San Diego, Calif., while Jeff was in the Navy.

Karen and Jeff were married 38 years, raised five sons and were blessed with seven grandchildren. The family moved to Cody in 1991 and lived in Wapiti.

Karen had an entrepreneurial spirit throughout her life, trying her hand at wood carving, Native American crafts, pottery, stained glass and started Mountain Fresh Soap with friend Donna Soule.

Karen had no greater love than her family and friends. She spent her life involved in her children's activities. Karen's children would brag that she never missed a football game, wrestling match, track meet, hockey game or rodeo.

She had a great love for the outdoors, animals, her community and family. Karen held the Wapiti community close to her heart, and had great love for her friends and their families.

One of Karen's greatest loves was playing Bunko with the women of Wapiti, and through this group she kindled close friendships that lasted throughout her life.

She spent her life caring for her family and the people around her. There was never a stranger in her life. Karen was known as Mom to all and enjoyed the part.

She lived her life with the philosophy, "In the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make."

She is survived by her husband Jeff, sons Sean (Betty) of Cody, Josh (Laura) of Cody, Jason (Jamie) of Cody, Gonzo (Meghan) of South Carolina and Dion (Amy) of Powell, grandchildren Kya, Dakota, Hayden, Dylan, Colton, Wyatt and Alicia, mother Alta Ann, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins, and siblings Kathy (Jon) Tachovsky, Don (Vickie) Earl and David (Teresa) Earl.

Karen was preceded in death by her father Everett.

Memorial services were 11:00 AM Saturday, January 29, 2011 at Cody Missionary Alliance Church.

In lieu of flowers an account has been set up at First National Bank & Trust.

A complete obituary and online registry is available at www.ballardfh.com.

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