Karen Maker

  Karen Eileen (Swanson) Maker, of Hunter ND, passed away peacefully in her sleep September 25, 2024. She was 77 years old. Karen was born on November 12, 1946 to Andrew and Elin Swanson of Forsyth, Montana. Karen was the youngest of nine siblings- Lucille, Elinor, Carl, Bob, Jon, Shirley, Jim and Bill.

   Karen lived in Forsyth throughout her childhood. She graduated from Forsyth High School and later attended cosmetology school. She met and married Richard Anderson Sr. and together they had a son, Rick. They later divorced. She worked as a beautician for thirty years in West Fargo, Mapleton, and Hunter. Years later she met and married the love of her life Earl E. Maker, and they made their home on their farmstead west of Hunter.

   Karen enjoyed many hobbies, including baking, gardening, sewing and crafting. The light of her life were her four granddaughters, Emily, Makensie, Hannah, and Arianna. She loved attending all of their events and being their biggest cheerleader. Whether it was softball, volleyball, a spelling bee, concert or play, she never missed an opportunity to celebrate their achievements. She loved them fiercely and was a guiding light in their lives. The bond they shared was extraordinary.

   She is preceded in death by three brothers, two sisters, two infant sons, Andy and a baby boy, her niece Teena Frieze, as well as her beloved husband Earl.

   Karen is survived by her son Rick Anderson (Sandy) Hunter, ND, her four granddaughters Emily (Nate) Moorhead MN, Makensie, Harwood ND, Hannah, Fargo ND, and Arianna, Fargo ND, as well as one sister and two brothers and many, many nieces and nephews in Montana.

   Karen will be laid to rest with a private ceremony. There will be a memorial held in Forsyth, Montana to celebrate Karen’s life in October. 

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