Karen K. Wanamaker, 74, died May 27, 2013 at her home in Beresford, SD. She was born February 14, 1939 in Huron, SD to John M. and Ruby (Brown) Thompson. Karen grew up in Doland, SD and graduated from Doland High School in 1957. She attended Presentation School of Nursing before marrying Jack F. Nelson on February 25, 1958. Karen worked at the Brookings Hospital while her husband, Jack, finished his associate's degree from SDSU. Upon graduation the couple moved to Miller, SD. Karen took a secretarial job with the State's Attorney, Jim Hare, and moved on to working at United Building Center in Miller as bookkeeper. In 1964 the couple bought the Beresford Republic in Beresford, SD, where Karen worked until 1975. In 1975 she moved back to Doland, SD and worked at the Doland Security State Bank until 1977. She moved back to Beresford and began working for the Frieberg Law Firm until her retirement. On March 6, 1982 she was united in marriage to J. Dix Wanamaker. They spent many happy years fishing and camping. She was active in the Zion United Methodist Church, serving as financial secretary for several years and served on many committees. Being an avid golfer, Karen was involved in the Beresford Country Club as treasurer and associated with The Bridges of Beresford Golf Course and community center. Survivors include her sons, Corry Nelson and his wife, Kirsten and their two children, Alexander and Adrianna Dres of Boyd, Texas and Alan Nelson of Bucksport, Maine, four nieces and three nephews. Karen was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Larry Thompson and Gordon Thompson and one sister, Elaine Hanson. Memorial services will be 10AM Saturday, June 1, 2013 at Beresford Zion United Methodist Church.