Karen Carlson Campbell, age 64, passed away March 1, 2019 at Medical City Plano while undergoing a routine medical procedure.  Close friends were in attendance.   She was born on April 26, 1954 in Coral Gables, Florida to her parents, William Wesley and Hazel (Stiles) Carlson.  Karen attended high school in Miami and then received a Bachelor of Education degree from Central Bible College in Springfield, Missouri.  During her working years, Karen served in several secretarial positions, but her life work was with the non-profit, Camp John Marc.  Karen believed strongly in the mission statement of the camp as it reflected her loving nature.  Her devotion to the staff and campers continued for 24 years until her retirement in 2016.  Her definition of retirement was to start a new business which entailed building a fabulous dog grooming salon at her home in Lucas, Texas.  She named the business Sit, Stay, Sparkle, and it wasn’t long until purple bows, bags, and leads were everywhere, reflecting her favorite color. Although she loved all forms of animals including horses, cats, birds and bunnies, dogs held first place in the parade of animals that she owned.  Karen began her journey training and showing dogs 30 years ago.  Her passionate work with dogs included obedience, agility, conformation, rally and therapy.  Always smiling, she was willing to help anyone in need.  Her innate kindness and generosity created a bountiful legacy of loyal and loving friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Hazel Carlson.

Karen is survived by a host of relatives and friends that loved her very much.  She wanted the world to be a happy and loving place and she did her part to make it so.

A memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Saturday, March 9, 2019 at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home Chapel, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas.  A reception will immediately follow. 

Donations in Karen’s memory may be made to Camp John Marc and the DFW Cocker Rescue.