On Saturday, September 17, 2022, Karen Lorraine Findley, loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away. Karen was born on August 11, 1941 in Northfield, MN to Orenco and Ada Otis, and later married the love of her life Dean Findley. She was a lifelong nurse, dairy farmer, race horse trainer, motorcycle enthusiast, and business owner among many other things.
Karen had a passion for animals and was a generous supporter of animal rescues. She had a great love for all animals, especially her dogs and cats. Many hours were spent tending to the dairy farm and caring for her family near Lonsdale, MN. She was an accomplished horse trainer alongside her husband Dean, racing in Minnesota, Colorado, New Mexico and surrounding states.
They spent many years traveling the country in their RV attending motorcycle rallies and shows. She enjoyed riding her motorcycle and spending time with all of her friends and family as they traveled. They concluded their travels and settled down in Sunland Park, New Mexico where they had a motorcycle and accessory shop for several years.
Karen spent the remainder of her life in Santa Teresa, New Mexico where she was a member of the Santa Teresa Country Club and enjoyed the company of her many friends. She dedicated a large portion of her life as a nurse and worked at several different hospitals. She worked at El Paso Behavioral Health until three weeks before her passing. Karen was passionate about nursing and helping those in need, she was loved by fellow nurses that she had met over the years.
Karen was an active member of St. Matthews Catholic Church, participated in the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary’s, and enjoyed spending time with her sisters of faith.
Karen was best known for her fierce determination, generous spirit, and quick witted humor. She is survived by her son Tim Otis, Sister Joan Abrahamson, grandchildren Patrick Otis and wife Allison, Callie Grinstead and husband Joe, and Ryan Otis. Great grandchildren Kipton, Abigail, Wyatt, Samantha, Kasen, and Kannon. And 12 nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her husband Dean Findley, siblings Nedra (Skip) Mahaney, Kevin Otis, and Greg Otis, and great-grandson Colton Otis.
Visitation will be held Tuesday September 27th, from 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. with the Rosary at 6:00 p.m. at Hillcrest Funeral Home - West in El Paso, TX. The Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, September 28th, at 11 a.m. at St. Matthews Catholic Church. In lieu of giving flowers, please make a donation to your local animal shelter, animal rescue, or nurse education program.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hillcrestfhwest.com for the Findley family.
