Karen Marshall Neilson was more than just a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend – she was a vibrant soul – as all who knew her can attest. With a heart full of love and a spirit of adventure, she peacefully passed away on October 25, 2025, at age 86 in Rexburg, Idaho.

Born on November 28, 1938, in Ashton, Idaho, Karen was the firstborn daughter of Don and Wanda Marshall; siblings Jim Marshall, J'Lene Lewis, and Tracy Marshall followed, completing the family. Karen cherished her close relationships with her grandparents, Glenn and Minnie Orgill, and James Eugene and Delphia Marshall, often reflecting on the joys of growing up surrounded by family.

Karen attended school in Ashton, where she developed lifelong friendships and especially enjoyed skiing.  Karen's life was marked by her talent in the kitchen, her skill with needle and thread, and her musical gift of playing the piano — passions she pursued throughout her life.

Karen's life took a pivotal turn when she met her sweetheart, Chad Neilson, at a dance at a rival high school. That dance began a journey spanning multiple years. After graduating from North Fremont High School, she attended the LDS Business College in Salt Lake City, Utah, and worked as a secretary at the LDS Church Office Building.

Karen's friendship with Chad deepened. While he served an LDS mission to the Central States, the two kept in touch through letters. Karen began a bachelor's degree in nursing from Idaho State University in Pocatello, ID, during this time.

Upon his return from his mission, their relationship blossomed, and their love story continued when they were married on April 19, 1962 in the Idaho Falls Temple. It marked the beginning of a lifetime of love and shared adventures.

The couple began raising their family in Parker, Idaho, enjoying time at Sand Creek with Chad's parents, Ora and Otto Neilson. Favorite family activities included camping, picnics, pack trips, and Sunday drives. Their children —Renn, Eric, Ann, David, Kathryn, and Lad — joined the family while they lived in Parker, followed by Kristine after a move to the Middle Creek Ranch and Monteview. Later, after moving to Bigfork, Montana, Dayna was added to the family.

Karen and Chad's adventurous spirit later took the family to Red Devil, Alaska, on the Kuskokwim River, where the family lived without running water or electricity, using the dogsled for transportation during the winter. Karen regularly reminisced about the closeness that her family developed because of the reliance they had on one another during this time.

After a few years in Red Devil, they moved to Bethel, Alaska, where Karen's career as a nurse with the Yukon Kuskokwim Health Corporation began. It was not just a job but a calling that brought meaning and purpose to her life. Her dedication to her work was surpassed only by her dedication to her family. She took time to go on Sunday walks down to the river, boat rides, or drives through the sand pit in the little red jeep.
After more than twenty years of nursing, she and Chad retired to Rexburg, Idaho, where they made their home at the beloved Old Rock House. Those years were filled with countless gatherings with friends and family, visits from grandchildren, and many happy memories. Most summers at the ranch, she hosted a multitude of grandchildren. She instilled lessons of work ethic, responsibility, service, and love to the next generation.
She was a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many callings. She was highly devoted to God, served all, had a generous nature and was quick to forgive. She was a valiant warrior for good.

Karen loved learning, traveling, and experimenting in the kitchen. She will be remembered for her curiosity, deep love for her family and her gusto for life!

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Don and Wanda Marshall, and her brother, Jim Marshall.

She is survived by her husband, Chad, and children: Renn Neilson (Susan), Eric Neilson (Stephanie), Ann Luthy (David), David Neilson, Kathryn Escarate, Lad Neilson (Jennifer), Kristine Ward (Jeff), and Dayna Neilson (Lars); 42 grandchildren; and 8 great-grandchildren.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Flamm Funeral Home. A viewing will be held Monday, November 3, 2025, from 9:30 to 10:30 AM, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM at the South Stake Center, 5200 South 2041 West, Rexburg, Idaho.
The burial will take place at the Parker, Idaho, Cemetery.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at Flamm Funeral Home.

Service will be broadcast at: https://my.gather.app/remember/karen-neilson