Karen Lee (Tangen) Brown age 79 of Delano, former long-time resident of Austin, MN peacefully passed away surrounded by family on October 12th, 2024. She was born on May 18, 1945, to Harold and Irene (Lillefloren) Tangen in Albert Lea, MN.

Karen Lee (Tangen) Brown

Karen graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1963. She attended the University of Minnesota before deciding that secretarial coursework at the Minnesota School of Business was a good fit for her.

In 1965, Karen met the love of her life, Tom Brown and the couple married on September 25, 1965, in Albert Lea. After living in Eau Claire, WI for one year, the couple made their home in Austin and started a family. Tom and Karen were avid motorcyclists, riding throughout the United States and Canada for over 35 years. In addition to motorcycles, they enjoyed golfing and traveling, especially to Sturgis, SD, the Ozarks and Donna, Texas. They were also long-time members of the Eagles and the American Legion.

Karen was an exceptional mom and the ultimate grandma. She was fun, quirky and ready for any adventure; proving to be a solid rock and a true inspiration for her kids and grandkids. Karen was a woman with strong social skills and an uncanny sense of humor until her last days. She was revered by many as a supportive neighbor, a compassionate friend and an outstanding conversationalist and listener.

Karen’s community and work life afforded her roles as clerk, bank teller, bookkeeper at Austin Floral, Secretary to the President at Home Federal Savings and Loan, secretary for Dr. Fenton, Executive Secretary for the Austin Board of Realtors, President of Neveln School PTA, Clinical Assistant for Austin Planned Parenthood, Auxiliary President for Austin Youth Hockey, and finished her career as an executive secretary for Hormel Foods.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Tom; and infant son Scotty Brown; sister, Jeanene Reese.

Karen is survived by her son, Steven (Laurie) Brown of Delano; daughter, Linda (John) Droubie of Cambridge; seven grandchildren, Samuel, Adam and Will Brown, and Ryan, Madeline, Cal and Emerson Droubie; sister, Rhodette (Tangen) Groe of Albert Lea; brother, Gary (Barb) Tangen of Detroit Lakes.

The family is planning a private celebration of life. Arrangements by Worlein Funeral Home in Austin, Minnesota. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.