Karen Lou Simper

Karen Lou Welcker Simper, age 76, of Rigby, Idaho, passed away on Thursday, August 28, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Karen was born on May 27, 1949, in Pocatello, Idaho, to Lewis Florian Welcker and Lois Marie Thurman. Karen grew up in Magna, Utah, where she enjoyed participating in student government, pep club, choir, and received high academic honors. She later attended Utah State University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in English.

Karen was married and sealed to Brent Daniel Simper in the Salt Lake City Temple in Utah on June 5, 1969. Together, they raised seven boys. Family was the center of her life, and she took great pride in raising her family. Karen dedicated her life to education and learning. She began her teaching career in Tremonton, Utah, and later served as a Reading and Writing teacher at Walt Clark Middle School in Loveland, Colorado, where she inspired students for 22 years. After moving to Rigby, Idaho, Karen continued sharing her love of books and community as one of the City Librarians for over 10 years. She retired in May 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and service.

Karen was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and found joy in sharing her talents and time serving others. She enjoyed playing the piano, painting, crocheting, crafting, reading, and cheering on her grandchildren in their many activities. She will be remembered for her Christlike service, unwavering faith, and deep love of family.

Karen is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Brent Simper, and their seven sons: Daniel (Patricia), Matthew, Shane, Thayne, Darren (Lisa), Ryan (Ginger), and Russell, her sister Kristine (Andy) Ciupek, 18 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, Lewis and Lois Welcker, her brother, Michael Welcker, and her grandson, Garrett Patrick Simper.

Services will be held on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at 12:00 p.m., at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, (106 North 3800 East, Rigby, Idaho). A viewing will be held Tuesday, September 2, 2025 from 6 to 8:00 pm at the church and prior to the service on Wednesday at the church from 10:00 to 11:45am. Interment will follow at the Rigby Pioneer Cemetery.