Karen Marie Siirola
July 1, 1950 - February 12, 2026
Karen Marie Siirola, age 75, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at Ashford Memory Care in Draper, Utah.
Karen was born in Toledo, Ohio, and in 1960 she moved with her parents, three brothers, and two sisters to Salt Lake City, Utah. After graduating from Granite High School, Karen followed her passion for children and taught kindergarten at St. Ann Catholic Church. This experience marked the beginning of her lifelong love of teaching and nurturing young children, and her gentle nature and patience touched many young lives.
In 1974, Karen married Art Cracraft, and together they welcomed two sons, Travis and Trent Cracraft, who brought her great joy and pride throughout her life.
A trailblazer in her professional life, Karen became the first female Sales Representative for Transamerica Insurance, breaking barriers with grace and determination. She later worked for the Utah State Insurance Commission and, with characteristic perseverance, returned to school and earned her law degree in 1993.
Karen joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and remained an active and devoted member for many years, finding comfort, purpose, and community in her faith.
She will be remembered for her kindness, compassion, and unwavering willingness to help others. Karen had a deep love for horses, gardening, and baking. Her famous sugar cookies were a beloved favorite, bringing smiles to family, friends, and anyone lucky enough to enjoy them.
Karen is survived by her two sons, Travis Cracraft and Trent Cracraft; daughter-in-law Amber Cracraft; her beloved grandchildren, Owen and Lily Cracraft; and her siblings Jeff Siirola, Jim Siirola, Tom Siirola, Ellen Siirola, and Janet Siirola.
A gathering to celebrate Karen’s life will be held at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 S 900 E, Millcreek, Utah, on Thursday, February 19, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
In Loving Memory
My Condolences to Karen’s family. So sorry for your loss. I knew Karen when I was a kid. I remember whenever I saw her she was always one of the nicest people I’ve ever met. That says something about a person. It’s been 20 plus years since I’ve seen or spoken to Karen. But I remember her well. It’s because she was always so happy to see you and so nice to everyone around her. Imagine what the world would be like if everyone was as nice as Karen !
May comfort find you quickly and peace be close on its heels. Love and hugs for you during this difficult time.
I played softball with Karen in the CYO (Catholic Youth) league. Karen was a kick ass catcher, fun and funny! She was the best of all of us. Godspeed Karen until we meet again! Kathy
Karen was such a special. She was intelligent, dynamic and always fun! I met in her in high school French class and we immediately became great friends. In fact, she was my very best friend for the 2 years we were together at Granite. She taught me so many things and gave me confidence in life. I'm so sorry to hear of her passing. I send my condolences to her family. I know how much she will be missed.
Sorry for your loss. Thinking of you.
I was sorry to hear of Karen's passing, especially as it seems she had some health issues toward the end of her life. I have read the obituary and comments herein, and they describe very well the Karen I knew. In 1981, I was hired by the Utah AG to represent the Utah Dept of Financial Institutions, an area I'd worked in, and then was told I'd also represent the Utah Insurance Dept., an area I knew nothing about. Karen and others took me under wing and helped me understand their area of insurance regulation, which was mainly reining in agents and companies that had violated the law. She was always well prepared and had her facts well established, but was always fair with those she was prosecuting. At that time she had not been to law school, but she more than held her own when dealing with attorneys representing those she was prosecuting. Karen was, as others have said, fun, funny, smart, kind, and a good friend. My condolences to her sons, whom I know she loved, and to other family members and friends. May peace, and memories of Karen's love and kindness, be with you always.
I’m so sorry to hear of Karen’s passing. I send my love & sympathy to all of you. She was such a vibrant, fun, caring person. I will always remember her beautiful smile & sparkling eyes…they were always present when she was! My heart warms with memories from our “Insurance Department days”. I last saw Karen at my retirement party in Aug 2007. We hadn’t seen each other in years but she hadn’t changed a bit….still the same sweet, adorable Karen!! I love her & will always remember the beautiful person she was. She will forever remain in my heart as a treasured friend.
In Loving Memory
