Andover - Karen Elizabeth Marshall, born December 19, 1948, passed away in her sleep at home on Wednesday morning, March 11, 2026.

Karen was the daughter of the late Fred and Mary Trask of Dedham, MA, and the sister of Valerie McKay and Rosemary Trask.

Karen was a devoted mother and Nana whose life revolved around the people she loved most. She cherished her children and grandchildren and could often be found attending their sporting events over the years, always their biggest supporter.

Karen's love for her family showed all of us how to love one another and opened doors for how to live life fully. Her adventurous spirit led her family all over the world—from mountains to oceans. She was happiest on her skis, or with sand between her toes.

She introduced her family to skiing, creating years of treasured memories in the mountains of New Hampshire and Vermont, as well as adventures in places like Squaw Valley, Big Bear, Waterville Valley, Jackson Hole. Summers were often spent with family in Plymouth and at Priscilla Beach, where time together by the ocean meant everything to her.

Karen was so fortunate to spend special times with a loving group of her best lady friends, attending comedy shows, dinners, plays, and local events. She cherished those moments with them and loved them dearly.

Karen had a true green thumb and loved creating beautiful flower arrangements. As a longtime member of the Andover Garden Club, she shared her passion for gardening and flowers with many dear friends. She also gave generously of her time to her community, volunteering with organizations including the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA), the Brain Tumor Society, and Ride for Research.

Karen's life took her all over the world, but wherever she went she always had a book in her hand. She loved history and had an incredible memory, often sharing stories and knowledge gathered throughout her life.

Karen was always ready to say yes to a new adventure. Whether it was driving the 'family truck-ster' nonstop for eight hours with Jeff so the kids could race at Lake Tahoe, traveling across the country with her mother and sisters, hosting a wedding reception at her home, supporting drum corps activities, or helping build a summer home. Karen approached life with determination and courage. She truly had a passion for life.

Above all, Karen was the ultimate caregiver — a loving Mother and Nana whose wisdom came from a lifetime of experiences. Nothing made her happier than being surrounded by her family, whether sitting by the fire in Winter, or watching the sunset together in the Summer. She always took time to enjoy life's special moments of laughter, being present with those around her, or a when a breeze would pass her by and ask "do you feel that breeze? So nice..."

Karen is survived by her three sons: Alex and Jami Marshall and their children Garrett, Zella, and Minka of North Andover; Andrew and Maura Marshall of Jackson, Wyoming; and Jeff Marshall of Andover. She is also survived by her nephews Adam and Cara McKay and their children Scott, Maddyson, Ava, and Alyssa of Plymouth, and Chris and Colby McKay, also of Plymouth. She remained a friend to her former husband John. Terry and the late wife Celine MacDonald of Ottawa, CN, their Son Greg MacDonald, and siblings.

She will be deeply missed and forever loved by all who were touched by her presence.

Calling hours - Wednesday, March 18, 2026, 4 to 7 p.m.

Conte Funeral Home, 28 Florence St., Andover, MA 01810

Funeral Services – Thursday, March 19, 2026, 10 to 11 a.m.

St. Augustine's Church, 43 Essex St., Andover, MA 01810.

Celebration of Life – Thursday, March 19, 2026, 12 to 4 p.m.

North Andover Country Club, 500 Great Pond Rd., North Andover, MA 01845.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to: Andover Garden Club

https://www.andovergardenclub.org/checkout/donate?donatePageId=690d0c245e3b247352c0cce0, Shriners Hospitals for Children

https://donate.shrinerschildrens.org/campaign/618584/donate.