Karen Rae Nelson's Obituary
Karen Rae Nelson
July 7, 1943 – January 24, 2026
Karen Rae Nelson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family on January 24, 2026. Born on July 7, 1943, Karen brought light and warmth to every life she touched.
In 1959, she married the love of her life, Steve Nelson. Together they shared 63 beautiful years of marriage, building a life rooted in devotion, creativity, and family. They were blessed with four sons, each a reflection of Karen’s strength, kindness, and unwavering love.
Karen was a gifted artist, especially in sculpting, and a passionate gardener. She found joy in creating beauty — in her art, in her garden, and in the lives of those around her. Her greatest masterpiece was the family she nurtured: her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, each of whom carry her spirit forward.
She was known not only for her talents and her love of nature, but for her deep generosity and friendship. Karen had a way of making everyone feel seen, heard, and cherished. Her home was a haven, her heart a compass, and her presence a gift.
Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Winona and Raymond Boyakin, her husband, Steve, her brothers Randi, Rory, and her beloved son, Michael.
She is survived by her three sons, Todd (Robyn), Cory and Shaun (Shannon), along with her beloved grandchildren, Coleson, Ashton, Steven, Dillon, Sabra, Justice, Adam, Michael, and Benny along with her 3 great grandchildren; Killian, Rilynn Jaymes and Eden. She will be remembered for her laughter, her wisdom, and the quiet strength with which she lived. Her legacy lives on in the art she created the gardens she grew, and the family she built.
A celebration of Karen’s life will be held on February 21, 2026, from 1:00–3:00 p.m. at The Latter-Day Saints Church, 4484 West Willoughby Drive, South Jordan, Utah.
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