Karen Lee Ottman Barben

Karen Barben passed away February 2, 2022, at the age of 81. She was greeted in eternity by her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ along with a host of anxious family and friends who preceded her in death. But she left numerous surviving family and friends who will miss her dearly.

Karen was born in Redwing, Minnesota and grew up in Beldenville, Wisconsin. She cherished her time on the family farm and would tell stories of hard work and intense play. She enjoyed being outdoors and loved the nip of the cold air. As a young adult, Karen spent some time living in Oregon but ultimately settled in Salt Lake City, Utah. This is where she met and married Arlo Barben. It was the second marriage for both, and they set out to raise their blended family in West Valley City, Utah. The family grew large. Holiday celebrations were some of her favorite occasions; she worked tirelessly to make them special.

In 1998, after a long battle, Karen lost her husband Arlo. Years later, with her family mostly grown, Karen retired to the family farm in Wisconsin for a few years. This was one of her favorite places on earth. She loved to watch and listen to the birds while sitting outside. However, with the bulk of her family in Utah, Karen returned to Salt Lake City, where she lived the remainder of her life. She loved to sit back at parties and listen to family interactions and was always interested in how the grandchildren were doing and progressing. Karen was known for her hard work and great cooking. She had a great love for all of her family. Karen persisted in life despite difficulties, and she leaves a legacy of relationships that she greatly impacted. She led a full life and will be dearly missed.

Graveside services will be held Wednesday, February 9, 2022, 1:30 p.m. at Redwood Memorial Estates.  A viewing will be held prior the graveside from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at McDougal Funeral Home, 4330 South Redwood Road, Taylorsville, Utah. 

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