Passed away quietly in the beauty of a perfect winter morning on Friday, January 26, 2018. Homemaker, community builder, and Secular Franciscan for over 47 years, she welcomed all who crossed her path – friends, family, and strangers alike. She welcomed, and provided shelter to refugees, opened her home and family to numerous foster children, and international guests including a Special Olympian and his family from Northern Ireland. An avid bridge player and writer, she built many lifelong friendships. Always encouraging others to trust in their own dreams, she mentored first-time writers who then became authors. The kitchen table always had enough room and all those who joined had a goodly share. Peacemaker, boat rocker, and giver of dignity, she devoted her heart, time, and resources tirelessly to those most in need. Persons experiencing homelessness were of particular importance. She supported Listening House in St Paul and gathered many others to make an even greater impact. Karol married Richard Clair Morton while attending Purdue University in Indiana in 1957. In their 60 years together they had many adventures. Karol is survived by her husband, Richard; two sisters, Sally Barringer and Penny Schricker; five children, Michael Morton, Susan (Richard) Moore Clark, William (Perky) Morton, Katherine (John) Morton-Aslanis, Barbara (Michael) Heitzig; grandchildren, Timothy, Joshua, Matthew, Maya, Laura, Joe, Grace, and Lloyd; great-granddaughter, Emily; and many other relatives and friends. An extraordinary woman, she changed the world with each act of kindness and grace, and set an example for us all. Mass of Christian Burial 11:00 am on Saturday, February 3, 2018, at the Church of St. Patrick, 3535 72nd St. East, Inver Grove Heights, MN. Visitation at the church 9:00-11:00 am prior to Mass. Burial in the spring, date to be determined. In lieu of flowers donations encouraged to Listening House in St Paul, or other organizations supporting the dignity and humanity of individuals.
