Karen Miles

Karen Lee Miles, age 74, peacefully passed away at her home on February 9, 2026. She was born on August 9, 1951, to Thomas and Alice Sjoden in Leadville, CO. She is survived by her husband, Paul Miles; her children, Jeff Smith (Angela), Dawn Farrill (George), Angela Miles, Nick Miles (Angelie), and Christie Miller (David); twelve grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and her siblings Leann Choley (Ted), Karey Sjoden (Lisa), and Scott Sjoden (Tammi). She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Alice Sjoden, and her father- and mother-in-law, Paul and Violet Miles.

Karen graduated from Evergreen High School in Colorado and spent more than 30 years working as an insurance adjuster with Lockton and AIG. Later in life, she found joy in serving her community as a bank teller at Hawthorne Bank in Harrisonville, Missouri, where she worked for ten years before retiring.

Karen's faith in Jesus was the guiding force of her life. She was known as a devoted prayer warrior who faithfully prayed for her family each night—especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren—lifting each one up in order by name and age. Several scriptures held special meaning for her, including Matthew 13:32 and Matthew 17:20. On her kitchen windowsill sat an engraved wooden piece with Jeremiah 29:11 inscribed on it, which she loved dearly. She often said washing dishes while looking out the window was one of the most peaceful moments of her day.

Karen's life was rooted in faith, family, and the quiet joys of everyday moments. Karen loved rock hunting, especially in Osceola, Missouri, alongside her beloved mother-in-law, Violet Miles. She enjoyed camping with her husband, Paul, and returning to Colorado whenever she could. She was also a gifted artist who found joy in etching glass, drawing, and painting.

More than anything, Karen loved her family. Some of her happiest moments were spent watching her grandchildren, making her famous French toast, and celebrating Christmas when her home filled with children, laughter, and togetherness.

Those who knew Karen remember her as faithful, loving, and kind, someone who cared deeply for others. She was known for telling those she loved, "I love you lots, and lots and lots," or "I love you bunches." She was also known for her love of finding rocks and marbles—and for arriving a little late wherever she went, something she never seemed too worried about.

Karen loved her family and friends deeply. Though she will be greatly missed, her family finds comfort in knowing this is not the end, but only a pause until their souls meet again in heaven.

A visitation will be held Sunday, March 29, from 1:00-2:00 PM, followed by a memorial service from 2:00-3:00 PM at:

Rosehill Gardens Event Space
311 East 135th Street
Kansas City, MO 64145

Karen was cremated, and her ashes will be spread this summer in Leadville, Colorado.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Karen's memory to:

Lewy Body Dementia Association
912 Killian Hill Road S.W.
Lilburn, GA 30047
(800) 539-9767
lbda.org