Karen Janson

Born December 23, 1948, Karen was insistent she had separate birthday and Christmas presents. She graduated from Ohio University with a degree in Russian with the hopes to work as a spy for the US Government. Instead, she traveled to Colorado, a free spirit, later landing in California before returning to the midwest. Karen settled in New England circa 1976 with her daughter. An avid runner, Karen was a dedicated member of the Boston Hash House Harriers earning the name, "Shine On Harvard Moon", where she developed close friendships and had many, many adventures (based on the number of photos found). After her retirement, Karen packed up her car and went back to Colorado, again a free spirit. There, she volunteered at KGNU, loved her long walks, visits with friends/ family and also was active in the Boulder Hash House Harriers. Truly loved for all of her quirks, Karen was a thoughtful soul always picking up small items that she knew people close to her would enjoy. She loved a good laugh (even at herself), a road trip, a great party, a good political debate, and great music (shout out the Gasoline Lollipops her #1 fav.). A memorial gathering was held at The Waterloo in Louisville for close friends and family followed by a 3.2 mile Memorial Hash in her honor. She is survived by her daughter, Michelle Dean (David Dean), her brother, Eric Janson (Liz Janson), her two grandchildren, Cannon and Ty, and other beloved family: Nils, Peter, Reily, Jack, Sue, Ellen and Elizabeth. May Karen continue to "Shine On" and blaze her trail wherever her spirit may take her next.