Karen Sue (Moran) Thompson

After a courageous struggle with numerous illnesses, Karen Thompson, age 66, of St. Ignatius, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Feb. 24. 

She was born to Matt and Lucille (Miller) Moran on July 1, 1949 in Missoula. She was the fourth of five children.

Karen grew up on the Northside and still laughs today about the shenanigans she and her friends participated in.  Due to her father’s employment, she attended several schools in several states while growing up. After high school Karen graduated as a licensed beautician. 

However, she chose the career of motherhood rather than hair stylist. She truly loved small children— any get together from weddings, funerals, or family reunions, Karen was the person who took care of the little ones. She and husband Marshall housed foster children, several foreign exchange students and she was a daycare provider to many children in the Mission Valley, including helping raise her grandson Andy. 

She loved her many dogs and cats, and will be especially missed by her pup Cena who got to spend the last few days with her at St. Pat’s hospital. 

She was blessed to have several relatives visit with her this past week, and her son Steve was able to give his mother her last cup of “Coffee-coffee” as she liked to say.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Auntie Maxine, sister Colleen, and son Eric Gray.

Survivors include husband of 36 years, Marshall Thompson of St. Ignatius, son Steve Gray (Nebraska), daughter Shawn Gray (Missoula), sisters Dennie (Spokane), Michelea (Oregon) brother Jim (Denver), grandchildren Andy (Havre), Matt (Boise), Marcus (Missoula), Meghan (Nebraska) and great grandchildren Lukas and Avery (Boise) and Trissity (Havre), and several nieces, nephews and cousins.  She is also survived by half brothers Doug (Missoula) and Monte (Oregon).

At Karen’s request, no formal service will be held. A private family, gathering will take place later this summer. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any charities that benefit children or animals.