Karen Jo Dobson

Karen Jo Dobson, 74, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, passed away September, 9, 2024, at home surrounded by loved ones.

Karen was born on December 9, 1949, in Shelley, Idaho, to Jay Raphael Larsen and Naomi Valora Larsen. Her childhood was spent in Goshen, Idaho, and later in Idaho Falls, Idaho, where she graduated from Idaho Falls High School in 1968. She played the drums in Pep Band and played fast pitch softball. She also attended Ricks College.

On October 25, 1969, she married Bruce C Dobson in Idaho Falls. They were later sealed in the Idaho Falls Temple on January 6, 1982. Soon after Bruce and Karen were married, Bruce was drafted into the Army and served in Vietnam. Karen lived with her in-laws, Earl and Rose Dobson until he returned. Shortly after, Bruce and Karen were blessed with their first son, Justin Earl Dobson on May 10, 1972. Quickly after came Braeden Jay on November 28, 1973, and finally came a girl, Kiersten, on March 16, 1977. After being sealed in the Temple in 1982, Karen felt inspired that their family was not quite complete and they then welcomed Somer on August 16, 1984.

Karen stayed home until the children were older and began teaching for District 93 in Idaho Falls. She spent most of her years at Tiebreaker Elementary where she made some of her best friends and touched so many students’ lives.

She was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where she served many callings, including two missions with her husband, Bruce. She was active in the community running The Ammon City Girls Softball program with her best friend, Susan Richardson. She was bigger than life and was known to all the neighborhoods she lived in. She was known to soak up the sun sitting outside, often with Susan and Ruth Ard, waving at everyone. Her beloved sisters were also her best friends and she treasured every moment with them.

Karen’s greatest calling in life was being a Grandma. Each grandchild would argue that they were her favorite because she made each one feel that way. She and Bruce were the most supportive grandparents, attending each and every event they had. Although Karen was a huge sports fan, they attended every activity, whether it was choir, orchestra, football or hockey, she showed up to them all. One of the greatest lessons Bruce and Karen taught was being present and showing up. Karen was known for showing up to nieces, nephews, students, and neighbors events as well. Karen was known for her quick wit, welcoming spirit, and making everyone laugh.

Karen is survived by her husband, Bruce; sons, Justin (Holly) Dobson of Reno, NV and Braeden (Cheri) Dobson of Rigby, ID; daughters, Kiersten (Michael) Taylor of Ammon, ID and Somer (Brady) Stewart of Rigby, ID; brother, Jay (Karen) Larsen of Idaho Falls, ID; sisters, Vickie Peterson of Burley, ID, Lana (Jan) Kirkham of Shelley, ID, and Kay Larsen of Idaho Falls, ID; brother-in-law, Shawn Berthelson of Island Park, ID; 17 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Janaye Berthelson; and her grandson, Brycen Blackburn.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 13, 2024, at the Idaho Falls Stonehaven Ward, 2055 Coronado. The family will visit with friends Thursday from 6-8 p.m. at Wood Funeral Home East Side, 963 S. Ammon Road, and Friday from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to services at the church. Burial will be in the Ammon Cemetery.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.woodfuneralhome.com.