Karen Toone

Karen Thompson Toone

May 4, 1943 ~ February 10, 2017

Karen Thompson Toone of Ogden, Utah passed away with peace and courage at her home, in the arms of her husband and surrounded by her six children on Friday, February 10, 2017 at the age of 73.  Her wonderful life can best be described in terms of the heart.

She was a sweetheart. Born on May 4, 1943 to adoring parents Elbert O. and Gayle Thompson in East Mill Creek, Utah.  She had a joyous childhood. She met the man who stole her heart, David W. Toone, while a student at the University of Utah when she was entrusted to his care by her departing missionary. Dave indeed followed through with this directive to “take care of Karen” with complete dedication. They were sealed in the Salt Lake LDS Temple on June 25, 1963.

She had a tender heart. The new couple settled in Ogden where they raised their six children. She created a nurturing home where she won the hearts of her children time and again with her loving and tender ways. She beautified the world around her through her artistic creativity. She shared her musical talents as a church organist and Primary pianist and chorister, as well as playing for the elementary school patriotic and holiday programs. Her most cherished hobby was making her family happy and supporting their success.

Her brave heart was tried. At age 36, Karen miraculously survived a cardiac arrest which eventually led to a heart transplant at the age of 52. Her immense gratitude for this gift led her to become an advocate for organ donation and transplant awareness throughout the remainder of her life. She received her new heart with gladness, and in return, gave her heart to God, her family, and anyone who crossed her path.

Her heart was true. Karen was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  She served in every capacity she was called, and found particular joy in her calling as Stake Primary Music Leader, as well as her cherished time as an ordinance worker in the Ogden LDS Temple. By her deeds, Karen was a fearless witness of the gospel. “Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27). This is how she lived her life...with unwavering faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

We will hold her forever in our hearts. Karen is survived by her husband; her six children, Jeff Toone, Missy (John) Allred, Becky (Matt) Nelson, Brad (Amy) Toone, Shelly (Nate) Wood, and Jason (Billie) Toone; 27 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Ron; her brother, Ted; her sister, GayLynn; her daughter, Bonnie Gay; and her grandson, John Scout Toone.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 17, 2017 at 11 a.m. at the Memorial Park Ward, 3755 Porter, Ogden.  Friends may visit with family on Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Lindquist’s Ogden Mortuary, 3408 Washington Blvd. and on Friday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the church.  Interment, Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park, 1736 East 3300 South, Salt Lake City, UT.

Our deepest gratitude to the donor family and the University of Utah Heart Transplant team for the gift of having Karen in our lives these 20 additional years. In her behalf, we encourage all to “say yes” to organ donation.