Karen E. Sommers, 66, Minneapolis, died peacefully on Monday, June 30, 2008 at her home with her family by her side following a courageous battle with cancer.  Karen was born on February 27, 1942 in Minneapolis to William and Alma Sands.  Karen grew up in Minneapolis and raised her children in Shakopee and Osseo communities.  She returned to Minneapolis in her latter life and summered in Marine on the St. Croix at her beloved cabin.  She was an active member of Oakwood Investment Club and WIMN Book Club.  She was a longtime supporter of the Minneapolis Institute of Arts and Minnesota Public Television.  Karen had an active social life with many different groups of friends.  She enjoyed making various mediums of art, focusing on painting and photography.  She enjoyed river adventures, playing cards all night, listening to music, dancing, spending time with her grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her father, William Sands: and her sister: Norma LaRoque.  Karen will be lovingly remembered by her daughter: Callie Sommers; her son: Jeff Sommers and his wife Lara Hammel and their children: Anda Sommers and Ora Hammel; her mother: Alma Sands; Jeff and Callie's Father: Lyle Sommers; her sisters: Debra Sands and Kim Sands; her half sister: Linda Raab; many deeply loved nieces and nephews and several significant children whom Karen loved, guided, and cared for through the years. The Memorial Service was at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, July 8, 2008 in Pohlad Hall at the Minneapolis Central Library, 300 Nicollet Mall, Mpls., MN 55401.   A post service family/friends gathering will be held in the same location.