Karen Ann Cook

Karen Ann Cook, the middle of 3 children born to Harold (Spike) and Clara (Vesledahl) Martin was born on November 6, 1940, at the Fosston hospital in Fosston, MN. She grew up on a farm near Gary, MN. She attended school in a one room schoolhouse, transferring to Gary schools following statewide school consolidation. She graduated from Gary High School, enjoying academics and music and becoming the valedictorian of the class of 1958.

After graduating, Karen attended college at Moorhead State College (University), Moorhead, MN, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Business Education and a minor in Spanish. A proud Moorhead State Dragon, Karen actively participated in social activities, sorority membership and music, making close friendships while studying to become a teacher.

Following college, Karen met her husband, William (Bill) Cook. They were married at St. Petri Church near Gary, MN and began forming a life together, with Karen teaching secondary business law, typing and Spanish and Bill working in business, together caring for their first dog, Feliz, a gray miniature poodle. They moved and worked, living in Monticello in 1969 when daughter Kjersti was born and in 1971, son Shad. They had moved to Fargo and welcomed son Josh in 1973. In 1974 they moved to Owatonna, where they lived for 20 years, owning a local family restaurant. Karen was a stay-at-home parent, caring for the family and the family dogs, Brindle and Jesse. She was actively involved in the children’s activities, scouting, music boosters, church and community volunteer work. She also enjoyed crafting, creating many wooden ornaments and decorative items which she painted and gave to friends and family.

In 1995, Karen’s husband passed away. Karen, wanting to live closer to family, moved to Alexandria, MN, purchasing a home on Lake Latoka. Karen was active in church, volunteering, enjoying lake life and caring for 2 more dogs, Cricket and Tusla. Karen remained in Alexandria, passing away on May 23, 2025.

Karen will be remembered for love of dogs, reading, music, crossword puzzles, volunteering, caring nature, coffee, and enjoying sweet treats.

Karen is survived by her son Shad (Jenny) Cook and granddaughter Livy, and Josh (Bryan Fisher) Cook; sister, Rebecca (Brian) Livermore; nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

She is preceded in death by her husband, William (Bill); daughter Kjersti, parents, Harold (Spike) and Clara Martin, and brother David.

Karen’s family would like to thank the care provided by the care teams of Windmill Ponds Assisted Living and Moments Hospice.

Burial and gathering of friends and family to be held on July 12, 12pm at St. Petri Lutheran Cemetery, Strand Township, Norman County, Minnesota with a gathering following at the Gary Café in Gary, MN.

In lieu of flowers, donation can be made to the Lakes Area Humane Society, Alexandria, MN.