Karen Evelyn Black

Karen Evelyn Black
Salina, Utah - Karen Evelyn Black, 84, passed away September 9, 2025

Karen was born on October 21, 1940, in North Hampton, Massachusetts, to Walter and Phyllis Duso.

Karen began working when she was 16 in a medical facility until 1960, when she met the love of her life, James Black.

They married and spent 61 years together until he passed away in 2021.

They spent the first part of their married life living in California. The couple had two children: James and Phyllis.

The family later moved to Salina to be close to Jim’s mother.

The move to Salina provided a farm-style life of no crowds, farm life with sheep, pigs, and a couple of horses. Definitely a change from the big city.

Karen was always actively involved in her kids' lives; a supporter, a role model, and passionate about her role as a mom.

Karen started bowling on a league, which she did for many years until she was physically unable to continue.

One of her great hobbies was her yard. She spent hours outside grooming and making sure it was pristine. Her goal “flowers” everywhere.

Everyone who knew Karen knew how much she liked to bowl and talk.

Everywhere she went, she would stop and talk and ultimately make a new friend.

Jim would often say he didn’t want to go shopping with her because she would run into at least 10 people she knew, and this would add an hour or more to the trip. She definitely liked to visit.

Karen made a lot of great friends during her life. Many who stayed were dedicated to the end.

Special thanks to Janne, Roberta, and Anna for always being there.

Karen is survived by her children, James (Barbera) Black of Payson, Utah. Phyillis (John Payne) Torgersen of Richfield, 3 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, and 2 brothers.

Karen was preceded in death by her husband, Jim; parents, Walter and Phyllis Duso; grandson, Clint Torgerson; brothers, Oscar, Carl, and Roger; and sister, Myrtis Duso.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 11:00 am in the Salina Eastside Cemetery. 
Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary, Richfield, Salina, and Manti