Karen Jean Bolian

Karen Jean (Cope) Bolian was born September 19, 1951, at the Twin Falls Hospital to Wayne and Virginia Cope. She passed from this life on earth February 1, 2026, and entered the Kingdom of God.

She grew up in the Buhl area, attending Castleford, Filer and Buhl schools and graduated from Buhl High School in 1969. She went on to attend Twin Falls Business College, graduating in 1970.

At the age of 14, Karen met the love of her life on a family trip to Missouri, where she was introduced to Rick by a cousin. The two began correspondence through letters continuing their courtship after Rick later moved to Idaho. They later married in Twin Falls on June 5, 1971, beginning a lifelong partnership.

Karen began her career in 1971 as a secretary for the State of Idaho Child Development program and later transitioned to the Idaho State Attorney General’s Office. She retired in 2011, after 40 years of dedicated service. Throughout her career, Karen formed lasting friendships everywhere she worked, including close-knit groups such as her pinochle group, retirement friends, and others involved in the many activities she enjoyed. Even in her final week, she was still receiving visits from these dear friends, something that meant the world to her.

Karen had a deep love for animals, especially her “fur-babies”. She and Rick rescued many cats over the years, some in need of homes, and others simply in need of care, and treated each one with love, veterinary care, comfort, and joy. A special outdoor space was even built at their home for these lucky animals. Most recently, Karen adored her puppy “Kia”, whom she truly idolized.

She also loved gardening and spending time among her flowers. She rarely returned empty-handed from greenhouse shopping trips with her sister, which was an activity she treasured. Traveling was another passion, from cruises and foreign destinations to trips along the Oregon coast and beyond.

Family meant everything to Karen. She took early retirement to help care for her parents and cherished “girl trips” with her sister. Her nephews were like her own children, and she deeply loved her great-niece and great-nephew as well as their mothers. Weekly family gatherings and holiday celebrations were an important and meaningful part of her life.

Karen is survived by her husband, Rick Bolian; her sister, Sharon (Gary) Welch; and nephews, Chris (Sarah) Welch, and their children, Opal and Micah; and Pete (Tylene) Welch and their son, Lukas. She was preceded in death by her parents, Wayne and Virginia Cope.

The family suggest memorial donations be made to Hospice Visions or the Twin Falls Animal Shelter.

Funeral service will be held Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Farmer Funeral Chapel followed by a graveside service at West End Cemetery.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on Karen’s memorial webpage at www.farmerfuneralchapel.com.