Karen McDonald Wishart

Karen McDonald Wishart 

Karen Marie Gierke McDonald Wishart, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on November, 11, 2024, in Surprise, Arizona. Born on May 20, 1940, in Fargo, N.D., she was the cherished daughter of Judith (Grondahl) and Karl Gierke of Moorhead, Minnesota. Karen was their “miracle baby,” joyfully arriving after the couple learned they were unlikely to have biological children.

After graduating from Moorhead High School in 1958, Karen wanted to become a teacher to help children discover the joy of learning. She also wanted to live where the weather was warm. She chose Arizona State College, soon to become Arizona State University, for the hot climate and because the college was small.

After graduation, Karen became an elementary school teacher in El Centro, Calif., later helping special education children in the Chandler, Ariz. area. 

She was known for her kindness, optimistic approach to life, and adventurous spirit. Friends described her as a “breath of fresh air.” When not teaching, she spent several summers working outdoors and counting grasshoppers for the U.S. Department of Agriculture. 

Karen loved the beauty of Arizona, especially the rocky terrain. She adored rocks of all kinds–from gemstones used to create her bespoke jewelry to the small boulders she had her son Steve haul and place in just the right spot when she moved to a new home. 

Karen never missed a chance to tell her children and grandchildren how deeply she loved them and her pride in their accomplishments. By simply listening to you, she could lift your spirits. She had a rare gift and is deeply missed.

She is survived by her devoted children Michele McDonald and Steve McDonald (Amanda), and treasured grandchildren: Jack, Alec, Erin, Vashti, Allie, Ava, Caiden, and Sophia.

The family held private services to reflect upon the life of Karen McDonald Wishart and the love she shared.