Karen O'Leary
July 9, 1956 ~ September 25, 2024
Born in:
Sauk Centre, Minnesota
Resided in:
West Fargo, North Dakota
Karen Frances O’Leary, a beloved member of the West Fargo community, passed away on September 25, 2024, at the age of 68, surrounded by her family at Sanford Health. Born on July 9, 1956, in Sauk Centre, MN, Karen was the daughter of Elmer Orth and Delores Weber.
Karen’s journey in life was marked by dedication and perseverance. She completed her education at Sauk Centre High School and Alexandria Tech, earning her LPN degree before furthering her studies at NDSU, where she obtained her RN degree. Karen demonstrated her caring nature and skills in healthcare, serving in Cardiac Intensive Care and the Emergency Room with passion and commitment.
On October 15, 1983, Karen exchanged vows with Gayle O’Leary at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sauk Centre, MN, laying the foundation for a beautiful life together in West Fargo. A devout Catholic, Karen’s faith was a guiding light in her life, and her love and devotion to her family were unparalleled.
Karen’s creativity shone through her hobbies, showcasing her talent for poetry, card making, and a love for gardening and interior decorating. She authored a collection of poems titled “Whispers,” sharing her inner thoughts and feelings with the world. Despite facing ongoing health challenges, Karen’s positive attitude and joyful demeanor were unwavering, inspiring all who knew her. Her kind spirit shone brightly through her acts of love and compassion. She touched the lives of many through her thoughtful gestures of staying connected with friends and family, whether through heartfelt letters, cards, or special Christmas cards.
She is survived by her husband Gayle, West Fargo, ND; daughters, Megan O’Leary, West Fargo, ND, Shannon O’Leary, Fargo, ND; mother, Delores Orth, Sauk Centre, MN; siblings, Lori Orth, Sauk Centre, MN, Carol (Sid) Bjelland, Bemidji, MN and Mark (Cheryl Saari) Orth, Moundsview, MN.
She was preceded in death by her dad, Elmer, mother and father-in-law, Marcus and Doris, sisters-in-law, Sharon Gale, Gwen Ann O’Leary and infant brother-in-law, Douglas Thomas O’Leary.
Memorial Service: 12:00 P.M. Thursday, October 3, 2024, at Holy Cross Catholic Church, West Fargo, ND with visitation starting at 11:00 A.M.
Services
Visitation - Thursday: October 3, 2024 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Holy Cross Catholic Church, West Fargo
2711 7th St E
West Fargo, ND 58078
(701) 282-7217
https://holycrosswestfargo.com/
Funeral Mass - Thursday: October 3, 2024 12:00 pm
Holy Cross Catholic Church, West Fargo
2711 7th St E
West Fargo, ND 58078
(701) 282-7217
https://holycrosswestfargo.com/
Private Family Burial:
Holy Cross Cemetery North, Fargo
32nd Ave N and University Ave.
Fargo ND 58102,
View current weather.
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle
Gayle and girls, I am so sorry to hear of Karen’s passing. I worked with Karen many years in the Cardiac Intensive Care. Such a good nurse who really knew her stuff and very caring to her patients. We all had a great time with her and a group of us played on the hospital’s volleyball team. Many fun and happy memories. May those memories and all that you have gathered bring comfort and smiles to you.
Gayle and family,
I was so sorry to see the news of Karen’s passing. I worked with her for many years at the old Dakota ED. We had many unforgettable shifts. She talked about writing so kept my eye out for her book, I have “Whispers” and every time I see it or read it I will have fond memories of her. My sympathies, Linda
Our deepest condolences for your loss. Ron a d Brenda Orth, Brian and Shelly O’Leary, Brad O’Leary and Bruce O’Leary
I have bought several copies of her book and also some of her cards that were wonderful.
She will be missed, I’m sending hugs! Jan Laudenabch
I’m so sorry to hear at this late hour of the passing of your beloved wife, mother, and friend of many – Karen🙏
Karen’s poetry book “Whispers” has been on my desk, with my intent to phone her again.
Karen worked with me at Church Festivals with her enthusiasm and caring ways to be the best. A friend who so often called me to come and visit with her. Generosity and kindness so plentiful.
May she now be resting in the comfort and peace with our Heavenly Father.
Reading at this moment , 2 of her pieces of poetry:
End of The Road. and
Ordinary Angels. (One of who Karen was)
May God grant you His peace, With my prayers and sympathy.
LaVerne