Karen Townsend

Karen Townsend

January 14, 1971 - December 23, 2020

Karen Townsend, age 49, of Mahnomen, MN, died Wednesday, December 23, 2020 at Sanford Medical Center, Fargo, ND.

Karen Townsend, the daughter of Nona and Franklin Townsend, was born January 14, 1971 in Minneapolis, MN. When she was a young child, her family moved to the White Earth Indian Reservation where she attended school in Mahnomen. Karen met Sam Ortley and the couple spent many wonderful years together, until his death in 2018. She was employed at the Shooting Star Casino for many years, until due to health reasons, she was forced to retire. Her greatest treasure was her family and she cherished spending time with each and every one of them.

Karen loved the great outdoors, fishing, and spending time at the lake. She also enjoyed attending Pow-Wows, and trips to the casino. She had a huge heart, was very generous and loved to help out whenever possible. Karen will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Karen is survived by her mother, Nona Townsend of Naytahwaush, MN; children: Samuel Ortley Jr. of Bismarck, ND, Drucilla Ortley and Nona Leise Clark, both of Mahnomen, MN; special nephew, Maurice Clark, who she loving raised like a son; brothers, Brian and Chris Clark; sisters: Betty Oppegard, Sharon Townsend, and Melissa Clark; granddaughters, Leenah and Lylah; and many other extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her father, Franklin Townsend; significant other, Samuel Ortley Sr.; son, Tyler Townsend; infant son, Deon Ortley; daughter-in-law, Danielle Hanks; and brother, Franklin Townsend Jr.

A public walk-through visitation will be held Wednesday, December 30, 2020 from 5-7 pm at the Anderson Family Funeral Home in Mahnomen, MN. Funeral Services will be held at a later date. Spring burial will be held at Island Lake Cemetery, rural Lengby, MN.

Following all Covid-19 safety protocols, social distancing will be practiced, and all must wear a mask to participate. Please feel free to sign the guestbook, send condolences and view other opportunities which may be available to the public due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Visitation

Anderson Family Funeral Home of Mahnomen

Wednesday, December 30, 2020

5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

719 N Main Street

Mahnomen, MN 56557