Karen Marie (Pedersen) Munson, age 82, passed away under the compassionate hospice care of Ava's House in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Karen was born in Egan, South Dakota, to Lars and Margaret (Owens) Pedersen.  She grew up on the family farm in Minnehaha County and graduated from Humboldt High School.  Karen was united in marriage in December 1962, to Ronald F. Munson and they made their home in Fremont, California.  Karen was a career civil servant, dedicating many years to the Social Security Administration before retiring in 1989.

A lifelong lover of nature, Karen found joy in feeding wild birds, gardening, camping, hiking, horseback riding, traveling, and simply spending time outdoors. Her deep commitment to environmental conservation led her to volunteer at a local marine sanctuary and pursue courses focused on aquatic life and environmental stewardship.  Throughout her life she cherished the companionship of her beloved cats and horses.

Karen returned to Sioux Falls in 2022 and resided at the Inn on Westport.  She was an avid reader and appreciated the community's proximity to the library.  Karen also valued the companionship of her fellow residents, thoroughly enjoying their nightly games and shared activities.

Karen will be lovingly remembered by her nieces and nephews:  Laurie (Monty) Devericks, Sheryl (Tom) Farrell, Kristine (Dennis) Dumdei, Russell (Cecelia) Pedersen, and Richard "Eric" Pedersen; as well as many grand-nieces and grand-nephews.  We were blessed to have her in our lives.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ronald; her parents, Lars and Margaret Pedersen; her brother, Norman Pedersen, and sister-in-law Deloris (Dee) Pedersen.

A private graveside burial and celebration of Karen's life will be held by her family.

Karen's kindness, curiosity, and love of the natural world will be remembered by all who knew her.