Karen Severson

1953 - 2016

Karen (Vogel) Severson, 63, Eagle River, Alaska, passed away on Monday, Aug. 15, 2016, as a result of injuries sustained in an Aug. 6, 2016, car accident in Alamosa, Colo. Karen was born on July 22, 1953, in Bemidji, Minn., to David and Joyce Vogel. She was raised in Bemidji and married her high school sweetheart, Larry Severson, on May 8, 1971. They shared 45 years together. Larry and Karen had two children, Ryan and Heather. After raising their children, Karen began working at University of Alaska Anchorage. She was well known at work for her sweet personality and the many pictures of her grandchildren surrounding her workstation. Many family vacations are well documented, thanks to Karen and her camera. She loved going on adventures and taking pictures of her children, grandchildren and God's beautiful creation. Karen retired from the University of Alaska Anchorage and was embarking on a new adventure with Larry. They were looking forward to an RV adventure and spending time with their family, especially their grandchildren. Karen was very involved in prayer for others and touched many hearts with her words and presence. Those who knew Karen knew she was truly remarkable. Full of compassion, kindness, gentleness and love, she touched many lives. Her tenderness, beauty, wisdom and amazing faith were always present. Karen is survived by her husband, Larry of Eagle River; parents, David and Joyce Vogel of Bemidji; brother, Gary (Annette Theroux) Vogel of Bemidji; children, Ryan Severson of Anchorage, Alaska (and his fiancee Joanna Muriel of Cali, Colombia) and Heather (Vern) Heersink of Alamosa, Colo.; grandchildren, Gabriel and Lily Heersink of Alamosa, Colo.; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and many dear friends. A memorial service celebrating Karen's life will be held on Saturday, Oct. 1, 2016, at 2 p.m. at Community Covenant Church, 16123 Artillery Road in Eagle River. All whose lives have been touched by Karen and her husband, Larry, are invited to attend. Those in attendance will be given opportunities to share thoughts and sentiments about Karen.