Karen Kay Bloomquist

TODDVILLE, IOWA

Karen Kay (Brown) Bloomquist, age 64, of Toddville, Iowa, passed away on July 24, 2026.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at the Monticello Eagles Club. A private gathering for family and close friends will be held beforehand, followed by a public reception from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Born on August 7, 1961, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Karen was the fourth child of Helen Mae and Michael Lee Brown. Karen’s greatest joy was her family. Her marriage to Paul Bloomquist brought her two beloved sons, Brett and Wade, who remained at the center of her life. She later found enduring love and companionship with Nelson Borden, her partner of 16 years. Together, they built a deeply happy life and enjoyed kayaking, music, and many other shared activities.

Karen’s professional career made a lasting contribution to the Monticello community. She spent 25 years with the Monticello School District, where she worked in food service and transportation. For five years, Karen provided in-home daycare, work she greatly enjoyed and through which she formed lasting connections with many local families. In her free time, Karen enjoyed spending time with family and friends, painting, and writing.

Karen is survived by her longtime partner, Nelson Borden; her sons, Brett Bloomquist and Wade Bloomquist; her granddaughter, Eloise Bloomquist; her siblings, Dixie Wilson, Patricia Jons, and Joseph Brown; and many extended family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Michael Lee and Helen Mae Brown, and her infant son, Taylor Bloomquist.

Karen will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family, friends, and community.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home (Dyersville, Guttenberg, Garnavillo, Monticello, Holy Cross) is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.