Karen R. (Sorensen) Simpson

Karen R. Simpson, 88, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2025.

Karen was born on May 11, 1937, to P. Herman and Clara Sorensen in Menominee, Michigan. She met the love of her life, Richard “Dick” Simpson, in the 1950s while attending Grand View College. After marrying and raising their family, Karen proudly completed her bachelor’s degree in 1991—an achievement that meant a great deal to her.

She enjoyed a long and accomplished career, retiring as an officer from Hawkeye Security Insurance Company after more than 30 years of service.

A longtime and faithful member of Union Park Presbyterian Church, Karen was active there for nearly 65 years. She also volunteered with the Iowa Lutheran Hospital Auxiliary for over 20 years, generously giving her time and compassion to others.

Karen and Dick shared a love for traveling, often joined by friends on their adventures, with Disney destinations being her absolute favorite. She enjoyed knitting and lovingly created personalized Christmas stockings for her family members over the years. Above all, she deeply valued time spent with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Karen is survived by her daughter, Kathryn Green (Scott); her son, Michael Simpson (Angela); her stepdaughter, Denise Doepp (Larry); her brother, Paul Sorensen (Sandra); her brother-in-law, Lyle Simpson (Janet); seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and many other extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard “Dick” Simpson, and her parents, P. Herman and Clara Sorensen.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines. A service celebrating Karen’s life will follow at 4:00 p.m., also at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Union Park Presbyterian Church or Grand View University in her memory.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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