Karen Collins

Juneau/Stoughton- Karen Beth Toepfer Collins, age 44, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on Wednesday, August 10, 2011 at her home. She was born in Stoughton on January 14, 1967, the daughter of Robert and Inez (Stanhope) Toepfer. Karen is survived by her partner, John Shirk; daughter, Kate Collins; son, Joseph R. Shirk; mother, Inez; brother, Steven; nephew, Chad; two nieces, Melissa (Justin) Halverson and Lauren Toepfer; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. She was preceded in death by her father; an infant daughter, Sarah; and sister, Lynn. Private family services will be held. Memorials will be used for Joseph's College education.