Karen Mason

Karen Alyce Meldrem Mason, 75, of Marshalltown, passed away peacefully from lung cancer at her home in Marshalltown on Wednesday, February 29, surrounded by family. Following cremation, graveside services for Karen will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, March 3, 2012, at the Roland Cemetery in Roland, Iowa. Following the services, a luncheon will be held at the Roland Legion Hall. For further information or to send a condolence please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call (641) 844-1234. The Mitchell Family Funeral Home is caring for Karen and her family.Karen Alyce Meldrem Mason was born in Iowa City, Iowa the 4th child of Ervie and Alice (Hull) Meldrem March 1, 1936. Karen grew up in Malcom, Iowa, and was married to Harold Frank Mason October 13, 1951 in Montezuma, Iowa. They raised six children making their homes in the central Iowa communities of Marshalltown, Roland, and Ames.Karen was a homemaker for many years and made many friends when she worked as a house cleaner, nursing home cook, clothing store owner, and an accountant in their family business of Ideal Beverage Trucks. After Harold died in 1994, she moved to Iron River, Wisconsin, and operated The Spot Supper Club &, Resort with daughter Toni Mason and sister-in-law Audrey Mason Mitchell. Throughout her life Karen enjoyed time with family and friends travelling, playing cards, fishing, and golfing. Karen is survived by her long-time companion Roger Mason, daughters Debra Amenson (Jerry), Des Moines; Marcia Thiede (Barry), Kansas City; and Atonia Mason, Grand Marais, Minnesota; and sons Rocklyn Mason (Deb), Colo; and Steven Mason (Kelly), Bloomington, Illinois; 13 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, daughter-in-law Betsy Mason, Minneapolis; and sister Mona Thompson, Grinnell. Karen was preceded in death by Harold, son Hubert Harold Mason (2001), grandson Brian Amenson (1979) as well as her parents, in-laws, and brothers Gene and Gaylord Meldrem.