With immense sorrow but profound gratitude, we remember and celebrate Karen Kay Ferris, a precious gift to everyone blessed to know her, but especially to her family, who were the center of her world. Karen’s passing on October 5, 2025, leaves a hole in our hearts, yet her spirit, joy, and love continue to fill every corner of our lives.
Karen had a rare and beautiful gift—the ability to make anyone feel truly seen, cherished, and special. Her quick, infectious laugh, marked by a memorable snort, could brighten the darkest day and bring warmth into every room she entered. She found humor in life’s simplest moments and shared it generously, reminding us to smile even when life was tough. Her stories, told with a sparkle in her eyes, connected generations and created bonds that will never be broken.
Born in Glasgow, Montana, on July 11, 1945, to Dwight and Pat (Cleora) Gamrath, Karen was the youngest of six children. She joined siblings Moni, Patty, Betty Jo, Gerry, and Wayne for a lifetime of fun and mischief. The family moved from Valley City, ND, to Miles City, MT, in the spring of 1960. Karen graduated from Custer County High School in 1963.
On November 29, 1963, Karen married Jim Ferris, her soul mate and steadfast partner. Together, they embodied a spirit of adventure, laughter, and love. Whether dancing the night away, traveling to new places, or working side by side on their farm and at The Lube Center, their love was a beacon of joy and togetherness. They opened their home and hearts to employees, friends, and family alike—always making everyone feel like part of the family.
Karen’s greatest pride and joy were her children—Troy, Danel and Justin. Her love was a safe harbor; her encouragement a steady hand. Family holidays meant laughter-filled kitchen conversations and gentle teasing in the warmth of her loving home. She ensured that everyone always knew they were valued deeply.
Beyond family, Karen’s generosity extended to anyone in need of kindness or comfort. She had an uncanny way of remembering small details, offering encouragement, and providing just the right mix of humor and empathy to brighten someone’s day. Her hugs could heal wounds unseen, and her presence could soothe any troubled soul.
Karen was preceded in death by her loving husband Jim; her son, Justin Ferris; her parents, Pat (Cleora) and Dwight Gamrath; her mother-in-law and father-in-law, Opal and DeVere Ferris; her siblings Betty Jo Pedersen and Gerry Gamrath; and brothers-in-law Bill Cresap, Bob Fearing, and Norm Pedersen.
She is survived by her loving son, Troy Ferris and daughter-in-law Dolly; her cherished daughter, Danel Purvis and son-in-law Rob; grandchildren Macey Ferris, Shelby and Blake Loomis; bonus grandchildren Hillary and Reyer Rens, and Riot Purvis; great-grandchildren Kamden Ferris, Gemma, Brooklyn and Oaklyn Loomis, Dessa and Mina Rens, and Alexa Ash; sisters Moni Cresap and Patty Fearing, brother Wayne (Cathy) Gamrath; sister-in-law Mary Ann Gamrath; brother-in-law Orrin (Sharon) Ferris; sister-in-law Karen (Harland) Simmons; and many extended family and dear friends. Karen and Jim deeply loved all their nieces and nephews and treasured every moment of family time spent cooking, entertaining, and playing cards.
A celebration of Karen’s remarkable life will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, October 18th, 2025, at the United Methodist Church. Family visitation will be on Friday, October 17th, at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home, with the family receiving friends from 4:00 to 6:00 PM.
Memorials can be made in Karen’s name to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Intermountain Children’s Home in Helena, or a charity of one’s choice.
Though we mourn the loss of her physical presence, Karen’s laughter, warmth, and love remain woven into the fabric of our family. Her incredible gift was making each of us feel uniquely special and profoundly loved—and that legacy will carry us forward, always.
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Friday October 17, 2025
Stevenson & Son's Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Friday October 17, 2025
Stevenson & Son's Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Saturday October 18, 2025
First United Methodist Church
24 N. 11th Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Friday October 17, 2025
Stevenson & Son's Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Friday October 17, 2025
Stevenson & Son's Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Saturday October 18, 2025
First United Methodist Church
24 N. 11th Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Share
Diana Robinette says
Sending my condolence and prayers to the Ferris family
Beth Ann Wiedeman says
Ferris family, may your faith help u during this time of grief. I will always remember Karen for her friendly personality.
Shorty & judy says
Troy And Family
Our hearts are broken to hear your loss of your Mother she will be deeply missed by all what beautiful lady inside and out rear in peace my dearest friend
MARTHA Crandall says
My sympathy
Garth Sleight says
Ohhh, my sincerest sympathies to the Ferris family. This is a sad loss. She was clearly a stirling example to her children and grandchildren, and to those who knew her.
Jo Ryan says
I am so sorry to see that Karen passed. She drove the mail to Jordan many times and we got to know each other. My sincere condolences to all the family.
Burl Mulkey says
sorry for your loss
Ginger Huckins says
Loss of Karen will be a big adjustment to family and friends. I am so sorry for all.
Karen James Barnes says
Mys sympathy – she was such a nice, nice person
Mary & Chuck Notbohm says
Ferris family,
We are so sorry to hear of the loss of Karen. She was a very special lady.
Denise and Jay Harvey says
Such a wonderful lady! May you find comfort in cherished memories!
Carolyn Kimball says
A sad day with this loss! Karen touched so many lives in the very best way. I’m so grateful to have known both Karen and Jim.
Hugs of comfort to the family.
Susan Kohn says
I’m so sorry to hear this news. Karen was so wonderful and kind. Blessings to all of you as you deal with your loss.
Pam Rogge says
Prayers and condolences to the Ferris family. May you find comfort in special memories of this lovely lady.
Sarah Wagner says
Karen was so much fun! My condolences.
Tom Zuelke says
Oh my goodness, so sorry to hear of Karen’s passing. She and Jim were good neighbors and one of my first employers, babysitting the kids. Her humor will be missed.
Lou Schield says
So sorry to read about Karen passing. I lived in Kisey in the 70’s. She was always so nice to me. In prays
Tayvee Steen says
Danel, Rob, Troy, Dolly and the rest of the family I am so sorry for your loss. She was a wonderful woman and was a blessing to know her and your dad. Many prayers for you all. and lots of hugs.
Cindy and Dale Berg says
So sorry for your loss. Keeping you all in our prayers.
Cindy and Dale
Larry and Judy Jens says
Karen was a sweet lady. We enjoyed our friendship with Karen and Jim both. Our condolences to their family and friends.
Ann and Ron Roberts says
So sorry. Karen was so very nice and welcomed us with open arms to the Kinsey community years ago.
Paul and Elaine Schieffer says
We are so sorry to hear of Karen’s death. She was a wonderful lady to be around — fun and funny. You must have so many great memories. May they bring you comfort and smiles in the days ahead.
Colette Butcher says
Troy, Danel and family:
I’m so sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing. We had so many fun years together while being neighbors on North 7th and watching the both of you grow up. From finishing off the leftover ice cream many nights from their mobile ice cream truck to the day Lloyd drove Jim’s Kinsey bus up the hill and across the bridge due to an impending ice jam/flood only to meet Jim & Karen coming down the hill in from Kinsey. Their first thought was someone stole our bus. Great memories of time spent together. Karen will be missed but I know Jim was thrilled to see her when she arrived in heaven.
MURIEL SELK says
So sorry to hear of Karen’s passing. What a nice lady. She will be missed by all who knew her. May your memories help you through these sad days. Troy and Dolly, you are in my prayers.
Muriel Selk says
So sorry for your loss Troy anbd Dolly. Your Mom was a neat lady. She will be missed by all who knew her. Always ready with a laugh.
Kim Smarsh says
My sincere sympathy to all of Karen’s family. I met her and Jim back in the Lube Center days. And I was a frequent flyer there. Karen was always so friendly and had a fun story to share. Then I saw her frequently at UPS when she worked there. She was always a joy to be around. My prayers to all of you in the coming days.
Louise de Montigny says
Sending my condolences to all of Karen’s family. I so enjoyed her at the Kinsey Ladie’s events. She was always sweet and fun. Peace!
Marty and Jeanette O'Dea says
Our deepest sympathy to Karen’s family. Karen was a special lady and always so cheerful. She will be missed by many. May she rest in peace
Randy stanhope says
So sorry to hear about Karen’s passing you all are in my thoughts and prayers 🙏🏻
Lance & Chris Gierke says
To the Ferris family, our sincere condolences to you all.
Thoughts & prayers to your family. She will be missed. She was such a sweet lady. We really enjoyed visiting with her.
Eileen Entzel says
Thoughts and Prayers go out to Karen family
Mary Ann Murray says
So sorry to see of Karen’s passing. I always enjoyed visiting with her as she was always so happy. Thinking of the Ferris family and reminding us all how precious the wonderful memories are.
Kent and Marci Fandrich says
Troy and family
Sorry for your loss. Your mom was an amazing woman. Hold your memories close and remember she is always in your heart. Her best accomplishment is you and Daniel. Remember the good times. You are in our prayers.
Carol and Jim Watts says
Thoughts and prayers are with Karen’s family. may your many memories comfort you.
Myrna (Mulkey) Higgins says
Karen will be missed and so thankful she was someone I got to know. Sympathy to all the family.
Doug and Kim Blunt says
We enjoyed visiting with Karen when we went to see Dad at Extended Care. She was a beloved woman and we will always remember her dry jokes and fun sense of humor. We believe she is reunited with all her loved ones, especially Jim. Our condolences to all of you as you celebrate her life and grieve her absence.
Lori Raisler says
So sorry for your loss, Troy and family. You were a faithful son to go visit her frequently in the extended care. God bless you all in this time of sorrow.
Kay Davis Berdahl says
Troy, Dolly and Daniel,
Sorry to see that your mom passed away. No nicer people than your mom and dad. My sincere condolences to you.
Susan Hageman says
Our deepest sympathies to the family of Karen. We had some good times together when we were young. Both of our sons worked at the Lube Center and we knew that they were in the very best hands. We always had good times when we were together. Find memories.
Don and alverta says
We love you guys and will miss Karen We will attempt to be at the funeral but might be late over and I we will stay the night
Leslie Messer says
Living next door to Jim and Karen was some of the happiest memories of my life. Karen and my mom (Linda Lowry) were fast friends, and the laughter would follow them wherever they were. Karen was a very special lady, and she will be greatly missed. I’m sure that she and mom have connected in Heaven, and that they are snorting away–catching up.
Much love to all of the family.
Linda Wolff says
Troy and Dolly,
I am so sorry to hear about Karen. She was sick a sweet lady. She will be missed terribly. Your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.
B LORRAINE Nelson says
Condolences to all of the Ferris family Karen truly was a delight to know she will be missed.
Sandy Brownfield says
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Karen was a wonderful person.
Shawn Fluss says
Sorry to hear this prayers to Troy and family
Kevin & Michelle Carda says
Karen was such a neat lady! We are so sorry for your loss!
Darla Haughian says
Ferris family,
My sister and i were just talking about Karen not to long ago, then shortly after we see she had passed away. I bet her and my sister Rita had a big long talk, and even more better some big old laughs, I can hear that snort.I have some great memories of her and Jim from the days of being in the Kinsey community ( 1that i will never forget is a memorable hayride we were on ) Thinking of you now and the days ahead. With prayers and our sympathies
Jed & Darla Haughian Wier
Keri Berg says
Hugs to all Karen’s Family and Friends! She was amazing person I’m glad I got to know her. I hope in the days to come you all remember her chuckle and smile!
Shirley says
She and Jim spent many winters in Blythe where we enjoyed playing cards, fourwheeling inthe desert or just visiting. They were great,loving people. I don’t think I have ever seen two people more in love and not afraid to show it. I will never forget either of them. Even with Karen’s medical problems she never complained and always had a smile and happy thought for everyone.
Carol Gaugler says
My love to all. Karen was a joy to all. The photos are great. Sorry that I can not be at the service but know that you are in my thoughts! Love, Cousin Carol
Sherry S says
SO many Memories flood my mind & such sorrow for the loss of Beautiful Karen! I’m thinking & Praying for each of you & sending Big Hugs because I know all too well that it’s not easy at all! I will have ever lasting memories of Karen, Jim & Opal, look forward to seeing them again someday & playing more cards with them! Please reach out if I can do anything for you. <3 Sherry
Nancy Orthman says
Karen was a very kind and caring gal. Carl and I stayed at their hhehome and she and Jim along with Mom’s parents were great friends of the Orthman family. She was a strong woman who never complained about her health problems. May she rest in peace!