Remembering Karen Myerchin
Karen L. Myerchin, longtime staff member in Facilities, passed away Friday, August 2, 2019 at her home in Grand Forks. She was 69.
Karen Lea (Bauer) Myerchin was born February 4, 1950 in Red Wing, MN the daughter of Henry and Rita (Wild) Bauer. She grew up on a farm in Ellsworth, WI, graduating from Ellsworth High School in 1968. She moved to St. Paul, MN, where she met and married Gordon W. Myerchin on July 1, 1971. They moved to Grand Forks, where Karen began working at the University of North Dakota, helping Gordon continue his law education at UND. Karen retired from UND on December 31, 2013, completing forty plus years. After retirement, Karen and Gordon enjoyed winter retirement in Surprise, AZ.
Three children were born to Karen and Gordon, Paul Henry (Lori) Myerchin, Bismarck, ND, Bradley Allen (Audra) Myerchin, Grants Pass, OR and Martha Lea (Myerchin) (Tom) Wesley, Grand Forks, ND.
Karen very much loved her 8 grandchildren, 7 girls and 1 boy. They are Carlee and Christina (Paul and Lori), Meredith, Eleanor and Audrey (Brad and Audra) and Finley, Avery and Greyson (Martie and Tom).
Karen had 9 brothers and sisters. Surviving Karen are Joan Osmera, David Bauer, Shelly Diercks, Robert Bauer, Ruth Bauer and Gayle Nissen. Karen was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Larry, Daniel and Kenneth.
Karen loved her family and friends. She was kind and thoughtful to others. She was a wonderful role model for her children on parenting, marriage and faith in God. She enjoyed cooking, baking and sewing. Her wonderful meals and sweets, especially her chili, cinnamon rolls and poppy seed bread will be missed. She spent countless hours crafting a special baby blanket for each of her grandchildren which she cherished. Karen also had 2 dogs who were her best buddies and faithful walking companions.
In 2014, Karen was diagnosed with breast cancer, which she fought and won. In 2018, Karen was diagnosed with colon cancer, which she fought with all her strength; all the time understanding that her life was in God’s hands.
Karen requested that in lieu of flowers, memorial be given to Altru Hospice, Holy Family School and St. Michael’s School in Grand Forks.
