KAREN JEAN DOLSEY

KAREN JEAN DOLSEY

     Karen Jean Dolsey “Cottie,” 75, of Black River Falls, WI, passed away peacefully Jan. 9, 2023, under the care of hospice after a courageous fight with cancer. Her family was with her at her side surrounding her with love.

     Karen was born Aug. 8, 1947, to Basil and Verna (Gunderson) Koxlien. She graduated from Taylor High School in 1965. She was involved in choir, FHA and the student newspaper. On Aug. 14, 1965, she married Gary Dolsey. They spent their married life in Black River Falls raising their family. She worked at the Family Heritage Home and Pine View Care Center as a housekeeping supervisor for 44 years before retiring in 2014. She worked as needed after retirement at the local schools where she loved seeing the children. 

     Karen was the most kind and caring person. She enjoyed traveling with Gary and spending their time at their camper on Lake Eau Claire. Her faith was important to her as a member of the United Methodist Church and the United Methodist Women’s Circle. She also enjoyed volunteering at the Black River Falls Public Library History Room. The Milwaukee Brewers also lost one of their biggest fans as she loved watching and listening to them play. 

     Her greatest love in her life was her family and watching her grandchildren grow. Whenever possible she could be found cheering them on, playing games and spending time with them. 

     Karen is survived by her daughter, Sharon (Shane) West; grandchildren Nicholas and Natalie West of Verona, WI, and John, Dillon and Gracelyn Gerzsik of Minnesota. She is also survived by sisters Barb (Kim) Loomis, Sheila (Gary) Nelson and Cyndi Shepherdson; and brothers Duane (Suzanne) Koxlien, Michael Koxlien and Steve (Susan) Koxlien.

     Karen was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Gary Dolsey, her daughter Pamela Jean, her parents Basil and Verna Koxlien and in-laws Osborne and Julia Dolsey.

     Funeral services for Karen were held Monday, Jan. 16, 2023, at the United Methodist Church at 12 p.m. Pastor Inwha Shon officiated. Friends and family were invited to visitation from 10 a.m. until time of service. Burial immediately followed at the Riverside Cemetery.

     Memorials preferred to go to the Black River Falls United Methodist Church.

     The Torgerson’s Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements, 715-284-4321.