. Karen helped Jim with his veterinarian practice in organization and accounting realms. Their marriage was blessed with three children, Stefanie Louise, James Kenneth, and Michele Doreen. Both Karen and Jim enjoyed attending their children's high school and college activities and sports events. In all aspects of life, Karen was her children's biggest fan. Karen loved traveling with Jim to Ireland, Washington State, Arizona and especially making the many trips back to Maine to attend class reunions and see family and friends. She enjoyed flower gardening and had a unique flair for decorating their home with handmade primitive craft items and antiques. Karen loved her community and cherished the ability to work for several of the family businesses that Malvern had to offer. Karen was a wonderful daughter, wife, mother, sister, and a great friend to all who knew her. She exemplified true selflessness of her time, efforts, and compassion. Karen demonstrated this by offering help to friends, making cookies and meals when needed. She was always the first to offer help and guidance for those in need. Karen passed away at her home in Malvern on December 15, 2017 at the age of 79 years, 4 months and 15 days. She was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Dorothy; sister Doreen; and brothers-in-law, John Ahern and Bruce McDonald. Karen is survived by her husband of 57 years, Jim Ahern of Malvern; children Stefanie Shaw and husband John of Tabor, IA, James Ahern and wife Vicki of Kearney, NE, and Michele Ahern of Kansas City, MO; brother Kenny Michaud of Kimberling City, MO, and his children Michael, Hattie, and Kenneth; sisters-in-law, Judith McDonald of Winnipeg, Manitoba and Susan Ahern of Silvis, IL; many nieces and nephews and their families; and a host of friends.
Loess Hills Funeral and Cremation Center
Glenwood, IA 51534
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