Karen Ann Novacek

"On Tuesday, the heavens opened in celebration as our beloved wife and mother, Karen Novacek (Thompson), was welcomed home. The sky lit up with breathtaking shades of pink, blue, and green in once-in-a-lifetime display that brought our family peace and comfort during this difficult loss.
Karen was born on March 14, 1946, in Evergreen Township, Wisconsin to Opal and Floyd Thompson. She graduated from Spooner High School in 1964 and later earned a two-year business degree after moving to Minneapolis, MN. Karen worked at Western Electric in Minneapolis and later at OSCO, where she met the love of her life in 1972. Karen and Bill were married in 1975, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with laughter, devotion, and family. They recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in October.
Karen cherished her role as a mother to her four beautiful kids and four grandchildren. Karen loved doing her nails, watching Star Trek, having game nights with the family, watching her kids play sports, cheering her daughters during dance competitions and Vikings Games, playing cribbage where she often won, crocheting, and watching her husband's fast-pitch softball games before he retired in 1989. Her favorite flower was the red rose, and she cherished the color green. She delighted in the simple comforts of Diet Coke, Chocolate Milk, and Jello which were among her favorites.
Karen and her family moved to Scotland in 1989 which created her deep love for Scottish culture. Her face would light up during Castle tours creating her long love of history which was later enjoyed with her children. Closer to home, she enjoyed peaceful walks around Normandale Lake in Bloomington and Wood Lake in Richfield. Along with multiple visit to the North Shore for agate hunting.
Karen believed in the power of kindness and showing up for a person. A warm smile, a friendly hello, or holding the door for a stranger. Karen knew that even the smallest gestures could brighten someone's day and perhaps change a life.
Karen was the heart of our family. Her laughter, love, and spirit brought us all together. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, kind messages, and visits.
Karen is survived by her devoted husband of 50 years, William Novacek; her children, Kimberly, Amanda (Craig), Billy, and Maria (Rick); and her cherished grandchildren, Camden, Coen, Mack, Claire and Granddog Bravo. She was preceded in death by her parents, Opal and Floyd Thompson, her sister Leona, and her brother Bill."