The Blaine County Journal News-Opinion - We've Got The County Covered

Karen Louise Brekke, 85, died at her home in Helena, Montana on November 2, 2023.

She was born on April 26, 1938 in Harlem, Montana to John James and Ameretta G. Kelly. She started working as soon as she was of legal age to do so and worked hard her entire life. She graduated from Harlem High School in the spring of 1957 and went on to graduate from Walla Walla Community College in Walla Walla, Washington in 1964 as a Certified Practical Nurse. She thrived in her career and retired in 1995.

After retirement, she moved to Helena, MT and married Truman Brekke on August 25, 2000.

Karen enjoyed traveling and visited many states and countries. She and Truman enjoyed camping and spent many summers camping with family in Glacier Park and traveling to other campsites throughout the U.S.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother John James Kelly Jr. and husbands, Thomas Wayne Cornwell and James Richard Cornwell.

Karen is survived by her husband Truman; children, Richard Cornwell, Renee Cornwell (Bruce) Salerno, Edward (Jackie) Cornwell, Beth Cornwell (Brent) Poutre, and Daniel (Erin) Cornwell; step-daughter, Noelle Brekke; 9 grandchildren and 1 step-grandchild; 6 great-grandchildren; brother, Mike (Joan) Kelly; sister Phyllis K. Parsons; numerous nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place and her ashes will be buried in the Harlem Cemetery in Harlem, MT at a later date.

Simple Cremation Montana has assisted the family.