Karen Belisle

Karen Ann Belisle, 81, West Fargo, ND, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026 at St. Catherine’s on South University surrounded by her loving family.

Karen was born October 4, 1944 in Minot, ND to Earl and Evelyn (Thingvold) Vendsel. She grew up and graduated from high school in Lansford, ND before attending Minot State University for her teaching degree.

In 1966, she married Richard Belisle. While married, they had two wonderful children. After the start of their teaching careers in Underwood, ND they eventually moved to West Fargo. Karen started her career with the City of West Fargo where she retired after almost 30 years. She enjoyed spending time with her family, following them to sporting events, weekends away, and always served her special “shaka shaka” chocolate malts. When she wasn’t with her family, you could find her playing cards, traveling, listening to music or dancing the night away with special friends.

In her later years, Alzheimer’s began taking some of her precious memories and independence away. While she started as the first resident of New Perspectives in 2017, her final years were at St. Catherine’s on South University where you could always get a smile and a finger tap when playing one of her favorite songs, Elvira.

She is survived by her son, Lance (Sarah) Belisle and Tara (John Melvin) Belisle; her grandchildren Lauren Belisle, Jack Belisle, Nolan Krenner, and Marit Krenner: sibling Kathy (Ken) O’Connell, and her nieces and nephews.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Marilyn Talley.

Special thanks to HIA Hospice care team especially Kelly, Sarah, and Pastor Randy along with the entire staff at St. Catherine’s on South University for their exceptional care given to Karen and her family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made “in memory of Karen Belisle” at HIA Hospice 3800 56th Ave. S., Fargo, ND 58104.

www.hiahealth.org/get-involved/give (https://www.hiahealth.org/get-involved/give/)

Celebration of Life:  2 pm Friday, February 27, 2026, at West Funeral Home in West Fargo. 

Visitation: An hour before the service.

West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center

westfuneralhome.com

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