Memories

What will you remember most?

Words and photos from everyone who loved Karen — posted instantly, no account needed, newest first.

Many of my earliest childhood memories include Nana—her laugh, her love, and just her overall presence. She was simply Nana. I can’t remember what sparked the thought, but I vividly remember the day I learned that “Nana” meant “grandma.” I was absolutely devastated to discover that she wasn’t actually my grandma. In my little mind, I couldn’t understand how that could possibly be true. She had always been my Nana. What I remember even more, though, is that it never mattered. I was always welcomed, always loved, and always allowed to call her Nana—to know her as Nana and to be loved by her as one of her own. And looking back now, I realize I wasn’t wrong as a child. Family isn’t always defined by defined names. Sometimes, someone loves you so completely and so naturally that they simply become family. She was Nana. And she always will be Nana.ChariseSeptember 25, 2026
Karen loved to sun bath and Denver picked that up from her. This was never my thing getting a tan. They both said the sun was energizing. A sunny day always put a smile on Karen’s face❣️Her smile was contagious, me for sure. What a blessing she was, our girl trips unforgettable.Regina & my grandchild DenverSeptember 24, 2026
I was just 20 years old when I met Karen. She graciously shared her family and heart to the lonely Daytonians. She was my cheerleader when I could not cheer for myself. She was the kind of optimist everyone needs as a friend. I am forever grateful for the care she showed me and the wisdom she generously shared. She is forever in my heart!Cheryl PeteSeptember 24, 2026
I remember most Karen's sparkle, her flair, her zest for life. Really one of a kind in her fashion and style but also so wise and caring. From the first day Heather came into our life when Andy fell madly in love with her, we got to share a close bond with Karen. We got to know her as an incredible mother-- a rock and role model for Heather. An amazing mother in law to Andy. And incredibly devoted, funny and insightful grandmother to Miles, Allie and Cassidy. She was like a sister to me. One of my favorite memories is Karen taking me to have my makeup done for my wedding-- it meant the world to me. We couldn't wait for her visits to Berkeley-- and the great times together often with Nancy-- shopping, museums, jazz, cooking and making parties. Who could forget Karen throwing herself into all the plays and performances Miles and Allie produced. Karen was always ready for a good time. We treasured all the holidays together at our house and Heather and Andy's-- she made them all richer and joyful. She lives on as a role model for Heather, Allie and Miles and all of us to be family and caring people. Love and miss her so-- and wish she had revealed the guacamole recipe!!Ellen WidessSeptember 23, 2026
Karen went from a kind new Nebor to a super cool supporting friend, and neborhood safe house for my kids. She and George introduced us to many other Minnesota long time friends while Steve was alive. Then after his passing kept me in their circle even standing in support of my new marriage to Willie 3yrs later. Thank you George and family for being an example of that uplifting team Karen folk she & I had many conversations on. The adventures I enjoyed over our 50yrs of fellowship can never be forgotten or explained. I’m having troubles posting in my picture but I will keep trying. Look forward to seeing all able to join her celebration on the 26th I can’t believe she is no longer on this earth any longer!
Regina GSeptember 21, 2026
Nana was the best co-star, and she truly knew how to put on a show. Some of my very first memories are of our time together - rehearsing every song, costume, and joke to “perfection” before performing for anyone willing to buy a ticket :) Her love for music, fashion, and a good laugh shone through in everything she did. Whenever I heard her laugh, I knew we were in for a great time. As I grew up, that spirit never changed, but we got to share them in new ways. We spent so much time together throughout my life and I never saw her in low spirits. She always made a genuine effort to learn about my interests and check in on my friends, even when I didn’t even have an answer. She cared deeply about how I was doing and always went out of her way to make sure I was taken care of. I am endlessly grateful to have been raised by such a loving, supportive grandmother. Love you always, Nana!!!Miles GershSeptember 17, 2026
The Blackwells were always a second family to my brother and me. Karen, Mrs. Blackwell to me, was another mother figure in our lives, always caring for us and watching over us. We were much more than the Black neighbors in Edina! These two moms were so loved and will be deeply missed.Malcolm EatonSeptember 14, 2026
One of a kind! Never have, never will be blessed with another friend like Karen, aka Weezer! Trips we went on weekends to "The Rock Pile", thanks to Margaret. Grand Forks, ND to UND to visit Adam at college. Kiawah with Regina, thank you Brenda. Happened to be my 45th and a full moon, what a bonus. We had a blast, I will never forget it. Went to see Michael Jackson and Chris Issak. I allways had a good time when I was with Karen she would have it no other way as I know all who knew her knew that. Karen and her entire family were my son Adam and my family for years. Karen and I were more like sisters. She could allways cheer me up under some of the worst days I had gone through in the time while I lived in MN. I thank God for having our paths cross and have her in my life during the years we were close. I will forever miss her and know there will only be someone as special as her that one time in my life. Thank you my Blackwell family for sharing her with me as often as you did, I will be forever grateful. God bless each and everyone, keep you safe and help you find peace and joy after your loss. Love and wonderful memories, Karen
KarenAnn KnopikSeptember 5, 2026
My Best friend Karen. I first met Karen in 1991, when we opened the new Daytons Store in Edina. We both worked in the jewelry department. I first noticed her talking with a good friend of mine. I introduced myself, and we became instant friends. What drew me to Karen was the love of her family. You meant everything to her. As well as my family. They all loved and adored her. She invited me into the Blackwell clan. All the weddings, parties and holidays. I considered you all as my second family. Love you all. Some of our favorites were going to Runions and Green Mill for chicken wings. Always extra crispy. Cuzzy's for crab legs every Wednesday night. I wonder if our dollar bills are still on the wall. Bunkers for dancing the night away. And of course Grandma's. Wow, if those walls could talk. Life with Karen was always an adventure. Laughing, dancing, road tripping, or just sitting on her front porch drinking some suds. I'm sure in Karen's second life she's teaching everyone how to do the Electric slide. I miss everything about Karen. I miss my Best Friend 🧡
Jane ConradSeptember 4, 2026
Time with MamaNana was always silly, playful, creative, and SO joyous, literally from my day one. Ever present in the Gersh house, she cared for my brother and I like a second mom, and had an absolutely iconic run as the third member of our variety show. She inspired my love of fashion, dance and performing arts. I will especially treasure all of our family trips to Minnesota, South Carolina, and along the California coast. Love you forever nana 💙Allie GershAugust 23, 2026
Karen was a true and loving friend. The times and memories that we shared over the years are too numerous to articulate but are etched in my heart until my last breath. We have traveled together, we have laughed, we have cried, and we have shared things with each other that no one but us will ever know. My love for Karen as a sister friend has been a blessing in my life that will always be cherished..….she brought sun light, joy and a giving heart to everyone she touched.Brenda LauderbackAugust 22, 2026
Some people enter our lives quietly. Others arrive like a force of nature—and leave an imprint that can never be erased. She was one of those rare people. She was a strong-spirited woman who lived with joy, humor, warmth, and an extraordinary zest for life. She was the grandmother of my grandchildren, but she became so much more to me: a dear friend, a companion, and a true gem. She had a wonderful sense of humor and an infectious laugh. She was almost always smiling, always ready to laugh, and she had a way of making ordinary moments memorable. And then there were the watermelons! She collected them, loved them, and even had a watermelon skirt that seemed to capture her personality perfectly—colorful, playful, and impossible to overlook. Some of my fondest memories are of the performances she created with my grandchildren in their attic. They didn't simply put on a little show—they produced an entire theatrical experience. There were tickets to create, tickets to sell, and performances to rehearse. She entered into their world completely, encouraging their imaginations and making them feel that what they were creating really mattered. Those attic performances were more than play. They were memories being made. She was also an incredible cook. And she was wonderfully accommodating when it came to me. She willingly made me liver and onions—a true act of friendship! She also joined me at the Original Pancake House, where she happily took charge and told me exactly what I should order. Somehow, she always seemed to know what would be good. What I will remember most, though, is the person behind all those wonderful stories: her spirit. She had a generosity of heart, a wonderful sense of fun, and a remarkable ability to bring happiness into the lives of those around her. She was an extraordinary grandmother. She gave my grandchildren not only her love, but her imagination, her laughter, and her willingness to enter their world and make it magical. And to me, she was a dear friend. She was a gem. She was unforgettable. She was a force of nature. My memory of this wonderful Mamma Nana will last forever.David GershAugust 22, 2026
It has been discussed multiple times already, her laugh! If I could hear it again. I would-be so happy. She always went out of her way to make sure I had everything I needed. Shopping trips were definitely an adventure. She was dialed in. I have really wide feet so shopping was an all day adventure. We went to the shoppes on 50th and France. Then on to Southdale. After much research we finally found shoes that would fit at a store in Uptown. This was back in the mid to late 70's. Oh how times have changed. I miss those days! I miss my mom.Mark BlackwellAugust 21, 2026
A classy lady. Love to famlily
Margaret GronstalAugust 21, 2026
Always there for a hug ( unless it was a humid day). Always made me laugh.Chip BlackwellAugust 20, 2026
I will remember Karen as an amazing person who was full of joy and love and welcomed me into the Blackwell family Thanksgivings while Heather and I were in college and the fun times we had during the visit Pat and I made down to Kiawah Island not too long after Allie was born. ❤️Elyse RevereAugust 18, 2026
Karen and my sister Percilla and I became friends in St. Clair Village in Pittsburgh , Pa. Alone with the other friends Jackie Farrell , Aldine King and Wilma West as young teenagers. We share episodes ,parties and PJ parties. As long as I have our memories Karen will always be in my heart.
Joe Ann Lynch BarbourAugust 18, 2026
I will always remember nanas laughs, farkle games, her hugs and red lipstick kisses that would leave a lip mark on your cheek and the fun she had! Flying to Portland with nana will be something I will never forget. Our time in the airport and airplane was special as well as in Portland. Love you nanaAlec BlackwellAugust 17, 2026
Nana always was wonderful to be around . I will always remember her laugh. So glad I was able to met her and know her ❤️ Josie and Luca went to their first movie with her.Jessica RoszellAugust 17, 2026
Whenever I saw her, she’d always greet me with a big smile, and I’d smile back. I really loved her laughter and kindness. The Firecracker candle is still one of my favorite memories of her.Gretchen BlackwellAugust 16, 2026
"Nana is in heaven. That makes me sad. Please send me more pictures of Nana."KeaganAugust 14, 2026
LeaAugust 14, 2026
Mom, you were the true wind beneath my wings—always content to stand back and take pride in watching me soar. You taught me how to embrace motherhood whole-heartedly without ever losing myself, showing me how to love unconditionally, find joy in playing backgammon, spades and bid whist, and laugh until it hurt. Because of you, I know how to stir a cream sauce to perfection, savor a stack of page-turners like you did with Sidney Sheldon novels, and never pass up a good GWP. I will deeply miss hearing that cheerful 'Hi Lee!' every time I called, no matter the hour. You were my role model and my greatest cheerleader, and you are missed beyond words. I love you NanLeaAugust 14, 2026
Karen knew how to make any moment better. A game, a joke, a song, a skit - she was a master at meeting everyone where they were and finding something they and she could enjoy together. She loved music with a groove as much as I do. She had the best laugh, and I loved cracking her up. She was an excellent cook, and always took the time to make vegan greens at Thanksgiving. She showed me by example how to be an great parent. I absolutely hit the jackpot having her in my life, let alone as my mother-in-law and MamaNana to our kids. She'll be with me forever and always.Andy GershAugust 13, 2026
Nana with her first Great Grandchild - LucaEryn SegarAugust 13, 2026
My kids called Karen "MamaNana" and she was there the day both Miles and Allie were born. She was in the backseat of the car on the drive to the hospital for Miles, and her flight arrived the very night I went into labor for Allie. She arrived in time to be the first one to visit. I told her "Mom, I have a girl" and she looked at her and said "yep, it's gonna be so fun, you'll be friends just like you and I".HeatherAugust 13, 2026
Guest of Honor at the great Blackwell Family Olympics!AdamAugust 13, 2026
Growing up, it always felt like she had something for us to do. From getting toy water guns she got from the dollar store to watching movies when we spent the night. But I will never look at a game of farkle without thinking of her firstBrandon BlackwellAugust 13, 2026
Nana loved her thrift stores and “Nana Gifts” was something that was known around holidays and birthdays. She once gave me a gigantic dictionary when I was 9-10 years old. The best gift was the “birthday candle” she brought to a family birthday celebration. She said the guy at the store told her it’s a good candle. As soon as we lit the candle to sing “Happy Birthday” we quickly realized that the candle was actually a Roman Candle. Our family and Nana alternated from watching in amazement to watching in fear as the candle spewed sparks at us all. It was a very eventful day. I will miss her quirkiness ❤️
Eryn SegarAugust 13, 2026
Nana was always fun to be around. I'm so grateful to have had her in my life, and for her to formally bless our marriage forever by her own hand on our ketubahAdamAugust 11, 2026
No one played a meaner game of cards. Two rules. Had to play by the rules Had to have money to cover any bet.
ChipAugust 10, 2026