Kari Evelyn Gimse Brown

Kari Evelyn Gimse Brown, 96, of Hanover, IL, passed away peacefully in her home on August 23, 2026, surrounded by her family and held in their love as she grew her wings. Kari was born on May 4, 1930, in Trondheim, Norway, to Ingvald and Ragnhild Gimse. She remained deeply proud of her Norwegian heritage throughout her life and often joked that she was “purebred.” Kari married her sweetheart, Kenneth George Brown, in Winnetka, IL. They shared 55 loving years together before Ken’s passing on July 31, 2014. Together, they built a life centered around family, friendship, laughter, and homes where the doors were always open. Her two sanctuaries were lovingly known as “the Farm” in Hanover and “the Cottage” in Three Lakes, WI. Both were filled with family, friends, stories, celebrations, and shared glasses of wine, always with an olive. A devoted mother and grandmother, Kari was also a trusted guide and second mother to many whose lives she touched. Her beautiful blue eyes reflected the qualities she shared so freely with others: mischief, humor, kindness, and wisdom. Kari is survived by her four children: Michael (Stephanie) Brown, Janet Brown and her partner, Greg “Hawk,” Timothy Brown, and Matthew Brown (Jill Johnson); her nine beloved grandchildren: Parker, Kirsten, Eric (Kaelan), Melanie, Kelly, Nikki, Reyna, Nils, and Ivabella; her sister, Irene Nelson, and Irene’s children, Kari, Chris, and Cindy; and the children of her late sister, Joan Hough: Elliott, Geoff, Elise, and Roderick. She also leaves behind many dear friends and extended family members in the United States and Norway. The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of Dubuque, Midwest Medical Center, UnityPoint Health–Finley Hospital, Stonehill Communities and Furlong Funeral Chapel for their compassionate care and support.  A celebration of Kari’s life will be held from 1 to 4 PM on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Chestnut Mountain Resort in Galena, IL.