Kari Shirlene McFarland-Thompson

Kari was born in Salt Lake City, Utah on June 29, 1978. Just before she was born, doctors realized what they thought was a steady heartbeat was actually the sound of her heart and its echo. At birth, she was diagnosed with a complete heart block. Later, during her senior year of high school, she underwent the first of many heart surgeries and received a pacemaker. What Kari’s heart lacked in physical strength, she more than made up for with her extraordinary generosity—a defining trait her family and friends will forever cherish.

Kari was soon followed by three sisters, who she loved to boss around. The best parts of her childhood were spent out in Rush Valley riding horses, going to the “rough country”, and dreaming of being a real cowgirl. She graduated from Tooele High School in 1996, where she made lifelong friends and lasting memories.

When Kari met Shane, she knew she had found her perfect match. She loved his steady strength, and he loved her vibrant spirit. They were married on September 4, 1999, and later sealed in the Las Vegas Temple. Together, they built a life centered on love, laughter,mfamily…and a little bit of bossiness! In November 2000, they welcomed their beautiful daughter, Shayna. Twenty-three months later, in October 2002, Bryce joined the family, making their home feel complete—well, almost. Kari’s dogs were her “babies” too, and she loved them just as fiercely.

Kari had a special connection with each of her children. She was Shayna’s biggest fan, never missing a chance to cheer her on at soccer games. Kari showed up with enthusiasm and pride, celebrating every save, every effort, and every moment.

Bryce was her compassionate right hand. He worried about his mom and made sure she was always thought of, included, and taken care of. If there was anything she needed, Bryce was the person she called. Their bond was one of deep care and mutual devotion.

Kari will be remembered for her love of Dr Pepper, country music, musicals—especially Wicked and Hamilton—reading, Korean skincare, shopping at Sephora, and all things Disney. Some of her happiest memories were family trips to Disneyland, where they would open and close the park, laughing, and making memories.

Kari had a special gift for making people feel loved, and nowhere was that more evident than in her role as “favorite aunt.” Whether it meant showing up with pretzels and beignets from Thirst, sitting down to play a board game, sending silly messages, or supporting every school fundraiser, her nieces and nephews knew they could count on Aunt Kari to show up in a big way.

Kari’s life was a beautiful example of love, resilience, and generosity. Though her heart faced challenges, it never stopped giving. She is going to be so missed.

Kari is survived by her husband, Shane, children Shayna and Bryce, parents Denny (Audrey) McFarland and Wendy (Gary) Lloyd, mother-in-law Judy Christopher, grandfather Jerry McFarland, sisters Missy (Scott) Adamson, Haylee (Brandon) Bennett and Lacey (Dewey) McNeill, brothers-in-law Brian Thompson and DJ Thompson, and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her grandparents Shirlene Brimhall, Keith Ahlstrom, Elaine Ahlstrom, Renee McFarland, and her cousin and hero, Mindy Ahlstrom.

A “Celebration of Life” will be held in Las Vegas on Monday, April 27, 2026 from 6-8 pm at the Pelican Creek Ward Building (1991 Washburn Road N. Las Vegas, NV 89031).

Funeral services will be held in West Valley City on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 11 am at the Oquirrh Point 1st Ward Building (6253 W 6200 S West Valley City, UT 84118), with a gathering for all friends and family immediately following.

Please send flowers to 6442 S Mount Adams Dr. West Valley City, UT 84118.

You may also make a donation in Kari’s name to your local chapter of the American Heart Association or Human Society.