Karen Ann Soyland of rural Robinson went home to her Lord on September 25, 2017 in Phoenix AZ, where she had traveled to receive treatment for a cerebral aneurysm.

She was born in Atchison Ks on June 22nd, 1964 to Leo and Catherine Mathias Soyland.  Baby Karen came home to the family farm south of Denton, where she was raised by loving Christian parents. Along the way she was joined by sister Kelli, and brother Paul. She attended Midway schools, graduating with the HS class of 1982.

Karen was never sitting still, and most people had a hard time keeping up with her. If she were asked, she would say that her greatest accomplishment and pride was in her 5 children. Her example, encouragement, prodding, protection, and never-failing mothers love have so far produced 2 medical doctors, a commercial pilot, a medical student, and an honor student at K-State. Karen was employed for many years with the NE Kansas Multi County Health Dept. She was the administrator for the WIC and Healthy Start programs for Atchison, Brown and Doniphan counties. She visited, held, and advised for the care of many, many newborns, and to this day when in those communities, she will often see a child as old as early teenager, and say “Yep, I did that one”, and she always remembers their name. She also served as an assistant clerk of the District Court in Brown Co. After completing her bachelor’s degree, she substitute taught schools in Hiawatha, Atchison and Doniphan West. Most recently she was the director of McCarthy Baptist Church CDC (child development center) in St. Joseph until her health failed. Karen was an accomplished musician. She accompanied church choir for many years, played for students competing at state music festival, played saxophone in community bands in Topeka and Atchison, and along with Roger was a founding member of Atchison Jazz Express.

She is survived by her husband and best friend, Roger Tollefson of the home, her parents Leo and Catherine Soyland of Topeka, sister Kelli (Phil) Scott of Colorado Springs, and brother Paul (Erica) Soyland of Lawrence. Her children include Maria (Justin Boccardo) Compton and their children Jude, Lucas, Joaquin, Mateo and Camila of Punta Gordo FL; Heidi (Justin) Smith of Albany Oregon and their children Tate & Channing; Brendan (Becky) Compton of Wichita; Hannah (Taylor) Olson and son Crew of Overland Park; and Breanna Compton of Manhattan. She is also survived by stepsons Joshua (Evette) Tollefson of Punta Gordo FL, and Tabor Dean (Monica) Tollefson of Tucson AZ. Her step grandchildren include Joshua, Elisabeth and Caleb.

By her wishes, Karen was cremated.  A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 30th, 2:00PM at McCarthy Baptist Church , 2710 S Belt Hwy, St Joseph Mo. The family will greet friends at the church prior to and following the services. Memorials are requested to McCarthy Baptist Church CDC, and can be sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

She loved and cared deeply for those near or dear to her, and her absence is deeply mourned by her family, friends, church and neighbors. Now she is finally healed from her long battle, and Home with her Lord.

Chapel Oaks Funeral home in Hiawatha is in charge of the arrangements.    www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com