Karen Jeanette Brown

Karen J. Brown, beloved mother, grandmother, and devoted community member, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service, love, and joyful presence.

Karen was born on June 21, 1938, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Jack Dean Smith and Ruby Empfield. She married the love of her life, William P. Brown, on May 30, 1959, in Miles City, Montana. Together, they built a beautiful life rooted in love and commitment until William’s passing in 2015.

In 1967, Karen and her family moved from Minnesota to Colorado, where she became a fixture of the Longmont community. She spent her working years with companies including Dualmatic, Bestop Dualmatic, Wynns International, Nicolet Vascular, and the Moose Lodge Administration where she applied her talents in financial bookkeeping. Her professional life reflected her attention to detail and deep sense of responsibility.

Karen was a proud and active member of the Moose Lodge, where she earned distinctions such as the Academy of Friendship and College of Regents. She served as Past Deputy Grand Regent for the State of Colorado and also contributed as Chapter Advocate and Moose Trainer. Her dedication to the organization and its mission was unwavering.

Outside of her professional and volunteer work, Karen had a passion for sports. She was a season ticket holder for CU Women’s Basketball and could often be found at the ballfield cheering on her grandson and his wife during softball and kickball games. Her enthusiasm, warmth, and cheer made her a beloved figure in the stands.

Karen is survived by her children: Marvin “Dean” Brown (Pam) of Kansas, Jolene K. Brown, Carolyn R. Linden, and Jodi L. Simmons (Shawn); her grandchildren: Dallas, Mitch, Dillon, Darci, Trevor, Christopher, and Sherena; and three great-grandchildren. She is also remembered lovingly by her nephews Wade, Brett, and Bart, and her nieces Nina and Marla.

She was preceded in death by her husband William P. Brown; her parents, Jack D. Smith and Ruby Emfield; her brother Maynard D. Smith; and her sisters Linda Story and Sandy Fischer.

Memorial contributions may be made to Moose Charities, 155 N. International Dr., Mooseheart, IL 60539, in honor of Karen’s lifelong dedication to the organization.

Karen will be remembered for her tireless generosity, loyal friendship, and the joy she brought to everyone around her. She will be deeply missed.