Karen Beth Paulsen, 87 passed away on August 22, 2023 at her home in Rapid City, South Dakota. She was born on March 19, 1936 near Eagleville, MO.

Karen was born in a farmhouse  on what her father always said was "the coldest winter on record." The doctor arrived on his skis! Karen lived in Missouri until she was age 16, when she went to Waterloo, IA to live with her sister Donna. Karen attended West Waterloo High School, where she met her first husband, Charles Erpelding. They were married in 1953 and their son Greg was born in 1954. After relocating to California, their daughter Dawn was born in 1957.

After her divorce in 1959, Karen returned to Iowa, where she began her lifelong career in insurance at Century Casualty Company, a small company which specialized in aviation insurance. When the company expanded to Colorado, Karen relocated to Denver as the first employee of the new office. She recalled that in those early years in Denver she was the office underwriter, policy typist, claims manager and "general girl Friday." Karen also earned her pilot's license during this time.

As the company grew, a larger insurance organization sent a representative to inquire about purchasing the company. Karen politely declined the offer, but did accept an invitation for a date from the representative, and thus began her lifelong love story with Harry Paulsen.

Karen obtained certification from the Insurance Institute of America and was a licensed casualty agent in the states of Colorado and South Dakota, and continued to advance in her career to the position of vice president at Montgomery and Collins, despite being one of the few women in the field at the time. This role included serving as an underwriter for Lloyd's of London, the renowned international insurer.

Karen and Harry were married in 1973. Together they parented her two children and his three.

From their early days together in Parker, CO to their last home in Castle Rock, CO, the two provided a wonderful home full of Karen's delicious cooking for their family as well as their many visitors. They enjoyed outdoor activities – especially golf – and often traveled together for work conferences and personal adventures. Their favorite travels included cruises to Alaska.

Upon retirement in 2000, Karen moved to the Black Hills with Harry, where she actually continued to work part-time for a logging company, continued to play golf, helped serve breakfast to motorcyclists passing through during Sturgis Rally week, visiting Deadwood, and spending time with her treasured friends.

Karen is survived by her children Dawn, Mark, and Susan; six grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband Harry and her sons Greg and Steve.

Donations in Karen's name may be sent to the Johnson Siding Volunteer Fire Department or Calvary Lutheran Church in Rapid City.

A private burial was held at Black Hills National Cemetery.

A celebration of her life will be held at the Rimrock Community Center on Monday, August 28 from 3-5 pm.