Karen Lee Axtell

Karen Lee Axtell, 79, passed away on January 6, 2026.

Karen was born on June 17, 1946, to D.C. and Mary Wilson in Trenton, MO. She was the oldest of 5 children. Growing up, they had the opportunity to live in different parts of the country due to the nature of their father’s work. Karen graduated from high school in Hawthorne, NV. She married her lifelong love, Kenneth (Jack) Axtell, in Spickard, MO on October 11, 1970. They finally settled in Pocatello, ID, where they raised their 4 children. They were married for 46 years until Kenneth passed away on April 11, 2016.

Karen was lovingly known as Mema. Her family was her greatest achievement and joy. She was strong, loving, and unforgettable in every way. Her sass, strength, and love will live within us all. She will be deeply missed and never forgotten. She had an incredible talent for making Christmas stockings for all of her loved ones. She loved hosting dinners and playing Wahoo, which was a special family game.

The family would like to thank the staff with Heritage Home Health & Hospice. They were amazing to work with. We would also like to give a special thanks to Taylor and the staff at Wilks Funeral Home. We couldn't have done this without you!

Karen is survived by her children (and their spouses), J.D. and Lena Scott of Chubbuck, ID; Mike and Michele Scott of Boise, ID; Tony & Christi Axtell of Inkom, ID; and Kristi Woonsook of Chubbuck, ID; grandchildren, Stephen & Felicia Jenkins of Pocatello, ID; Amber Jenkins of Nampa, ID; Tyler Cassy Scott of Kuna, ID; Andrew & Josey Scott of Pocatello, ID; Karlee & Austin Fischer of Pocatello, ID; Grayson Axtell of Salt Lake City, UT; Destiny Ward of Blackfoot, ID; and Garrett Axtell of Inkom, ID; great grandchildren, Riley & James Scott of Kuna, ID; Risan & Adi Scott of Pocatello, ID; Cole Fischer of Pocatello, ID; and Keisha & Cecil Jenkins of Pocatello, ID; and siblings, Robert and Jan Wilson of Nampa, ID; Steve Wilson and Betty of Star Valley, WY; and Kelly & Jerry Olsen of Emmett, ID.

She is preceded in death by her father, D.C. Wilson; mother, Mary Wilson; husband, Kenneth (Jack) Axtell; and sister, Pam Birnie.

No services will be held at this time. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date

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