Karen Holm Coleman

Karen Holm Coleman, 67, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, May 10, 2026. 

A devoted mother, grandmother, sister and friend, she lived a life rooted in faith, compassion, and unconditional love.

Karen was born on December 8, 1958, in Spring Grove, Minn., to Laurence and Audrey Holm. She was the youngest of four sisters raised on the family farm in Black Hammer, Minn., where she learned compassion, faith, and a strength in family which would guide her throughout her life. She was baptized and confirmed at Faith Lutheran Church of Black Hammer, a place that remained close to her heart through the years. Karen graduated from Spring Grove High School in 1976. In 1978, she married Paul Morken at Black Hammer Church.

A few years later, they welcomed a son, Michael; their marriage ended in the early 1980s. Karen and Michael lived in Rollingstone, Minn., until moving to Winona, Minn., in 1997.

Karen dedicated her life to caring for others both personally and professionally. She worked her way through college as a single mom and graduated from Winona State University. She continued her education, earning a master’s degree as a Licensed Professional Counselor. 

While working for the police department in La Crosse, Wis., she founded a support group for troubled youth called Another Way.  She was nationally recognized by the President of the United States as a community hero in the city of La Crosse for the positive impact of the program. She had the remarkable ability to make people feel heard, valued, and loved. As an accomplished EMDR therapist, she touched countless lives with her wisdom, kindness, patience and gentle spirit. Karen retired in 2024 from Peace of Mind Counseling in La Crosse, Wis.

In 2002, Karen met the love of her life and soulmate, Marcus Coleman, while attending training for work in Milwaukee, Wis. Their relationship was based upon partnership, faith, and love. Their bond was one that inspired those around them – steady, enduring, and full of warmth.  It was a strong, always growing partnership. Karen moved to Milwaukee with Marcus from 2003-2011. In 2011, work opportunities in La Crosse led the couple to move back to Spring Grove, Minn. On October 7, 2023, Karen and Marcus officially married at Faith Lutheran Church, surrounded by the love that had carried them through more than 20 years. After Marcus passed in early 2024, Karen deeply missed the man who was her greatest companion and comfort. Those who knew them find peace in believing their souls are united once again, together in eternal love.

Karen will be greatly missed by family and friends. She had a wonderful sense of humor and was fun to be around. She loved to watch Saturday Night Live since Season one and enjoyed taking funny pictures to lighten up the moment. Karen enjoyed traveling to new places, boating with friends and attending the MN State Fair with Michael and Shannon. She cherished spending time with her grandson Leo, whether they were going to the children’s museum, playing at the park, or reading bedtime stories.

Above all else, her greatest joy was her family. She was a proud, loving mother, grandmother, and sister whose home and heart were always open. Karen is survived by her son Michael (Shannon) Morken and grandson Leo Morken, who was the light of her life. She is also survived by sisters Kathy (Bruce) Anderson, Patty (Lee) Buxengard, Sue (Randy) Ellingson; aunt Dorothy Rosaaen; several cousins; many beloved nieces, nephews, and dear friends. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Marcus, her parents, grandparents, and many aunts and uncles. Though her family’s hearts are heavy with loss, they take comfort in knowing she is now at peace in the presence of the Lord.

A committal service will be held at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery – Preston, Minn., on Friday, May 29, at 2 p.m. Pastor Leonard Liptack will officiate. A celebration of Karen’s life will follow at American Legion Post 249 in Spring Grove, Minn. from 4-6 p.m.

The family is being assisted by Roble Funeral Home. In lieu of memorials, the family would like donations given to Faith Lutheran Church in Black Hammer, Minn.