Mrs. Karen L. Ewen, 69, Rochester, passed away at 2:55 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 9, at Kindred Hospital of Mishawaka.

On July 24, 1946, Karen Lee Halfast was born in Cory, Pa. She was the cherished daughter of Dr. Richard and Clarice J. Bell Halfast. Growing up she shared her childhood with two brothers, Rick and Greg. With great Wildkat pride Karen graduated from Kokomo High School in 1964.

After high school, in pursuit of her dream to become a nurse, Karen attended Taylor University earning an associates degree. She continued on at Indiana University earning a bachelor of science in nursing in 1970.

On August 24, 1969 in Kokomo, Karen married the love of her life and best friend, James R. “Jim” Ewen. Together they shared more than 46 years of life’s adventures. From their union came a wonderful son, Garrett. The family tree continued to grow with the added blessings of three beautiful grandchildren.

From 1975 until  her retirement in 2000, revered by her colleagues, Karen served Woodlawn Hospital for many years as director of nursing and later accepted an appointment of vice-president of nursing services.  She was a member of Psi Iota Xi Sorority and the Indiana Nurses Association.

Paramount in Grandma Karen’s life was her family. She looked forward to and cherished the visits of her grandchildren.  There were many adventures, coming to the lake while they all enjoyed the water related activities.   Cookouts, fun and games all contributed to making special memories.

Karen will be lovingly remembered by her husband: Jim; a son: Garrett (Kim) Ewen, Granger; three grandchildren: Caden; Gavin; Linzie Ewen; two brothers: Dick ‘Rick’ (Lynne) Halfast, Frisco, Texas; Greg (Jean) Halfast, Rochester; and several nieces and nephews. Preceding Karen in death are her parents.

Private services will be held for Mrs. Karen L. Ewen. Chaplain Jason See will officiate. She will be laid to eternal rest in the family plot in Rochester’s IOOF Cemetery. Memorials in lieu of flowers may be made to Scleraderma Foundation of Greater Chicago.