Karen Jean London

Karen Jean London passed away peacefully on April 29, 2013 at St. Patrick's Hospital in Missoula. Karen's life began on October 23, 1941 in Seattle where she was born to Percy Reginald and Leila Margaret Banks. She grew up on a small farm north of Bothell WA and attended a two room elementary school, graduating from Roosevelt High School in Seattle. She later graduated from Everett Community College and became a Registered Nurse.
Karen married Harley Carter in 1968 and moved to Hamilton in 1973. Later they were divorced.
On November 13, 1993 she married the love of her life, Edgar London. They were happily married until his passing in December 2007. She felt the best years of their lives were spent together.
Karen was a nurse for various medical organizations, including Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital and Valley View Estates Nursing Home where she was loved and respected by her colleagues.
Not only was Karen a dedicated nurse, but she was a learner at heart, constantly learning all she could about politics, national issues, and global issues. She loved her travels throughout the United States and abroad, experiencing joyful memories with those she loved. She also enjoyed white water rafting, hiking, horseback riding, gardening and enjoying the great outdoors. Karen was known by her friends and family as a woman willing to help anyone in need. She took great pleasure in bringing joy to others. Her compassionate and giving nature will always be remembered.
Karen is survived by the following: son, Jeffery Carter (Jolene) and their daughter, Alizabeth Carter of Hamilton; her sister, Diana Klein; nieces, Linda Klein (George Wordley) and Kathy Klein, and nephew, Brian Klein (Ruth) and their children, Brianna and Courtney. Her step-children are Deborah Kalala (Jerry), Theresa Self (Michael}; Daniel London (Deanna) and their children, James, Cheyenne, and Sheridan; and Eric London. Her step-grandchildren include Wesley Durham, Amanda King (Gary), Jasmine, Crystal and Nathan Carter. She is also survived by many other extended family and friends whom she loved dearly. .
The family invites anyone wishing to celebrate the life of Karen to attend the service at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Hamilton on Wednesday, May 8, at 1:00 pm with a reception following at the church. Let us remember Karen; loving, compassionate, joyful, classy, and dynamic. She was loved and will be greatly missed by all.
Memorials may be made to St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Hamilton or St. Patrick's House, 501 W. Alder St. Missoula 59802.