Karen Rae Whisenhunt

Born Karen Rae Stevens, June 15, 1942, in Laurel, Montana to Ray and Ruth Stevens. Karen passed away peacefully February 9, 2023, in Great Falls from complications arising from her cancers.

She is survived by her sisters, Susan Macdonald of Great Falls and Ellan Yuill of Billings; son, Steven (Michele) Sheffels, grandson, Taylor (Lisa) Sheffels, great-granddaughter, Mackenzie, grandson, Nathan Sheffels, and granddaughter, Nicole Sheffels; daughter, Pamela (Kevin) Bedynek and grandson, Cody; son, David (Allison) Whisenhunt, granddaughter, Alona, and grandson, Johnathan; and daughter-in-law, Ann Sheffels, granddaughters, Erin and Sara, and grandson Christopher Sheffels. She was preceded in death by her son, Michael Sheffels. For those keeping score, four children, nine grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. She loved them and their spouses deeply.

Family was always first and foremost in Karen’s life. She spent 12 years in Minneapolis helping to raise Mike’s children. Grammie was always present for plays, music recitals, soccer, robotics, debates, and fencing matches. Like her mother, Ruth, Karen showed her love for her family through the little things. Crocheted or knitted afghans for all the kids and grandkids. Special Christmas meringues, handmade knitted dolls, and numerous crafts which put a smile on everyone’s faces.

A Certificate in Zone Therapy was one of Karen’s proudest accomplishments. She was able to help many people with her palliative treatments. Her passion around alternative medicines was consistently demonstrated by offering up potential treatments for any ailment.

Karen’s faith cannot be overstated. Introduced to the Baha’i faith in the late 60’s by her aunt, Glennis, she made pilgrimages to Haifa, Israel, and other significant places in the middle east. She has been active in her local spiritual assemblies for the last 60+ years.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Baháʼí National Fund by calling 847-733-3468 as a friend of Karen Whisenhunt.

A graveside service will be held at Highland Cemetery with a reception following the service at Steve and Michele Sheffels.