Karen Lynn (Cox) Buchan

Karen Lynn (Cox) Buchan

November 18, 1959 – December 15, 2024

It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Karen Lynn (Cox) Buchan, who entered into eternal rest on Sunday, December 15, 2024, in Omaha, Nebraska, at the age of 65. Surrounded by her beloved family, Karen left this world knowing she was deeply cherished by all who knew her.

To know Karen was to love her. She was always there for anyone in need—whether to listen, share a laugh, or offer her unfiltered opinion. She had an extraordinary gift of developing and nurturing relationships. Born on November 18, 1959, in Fairfield, Iowa, to Robert Barry Cox and Ruth Jean Hartman, Karen was the youngest of three siblings. She enjoyed synchronized swimming and gymnastics in her youth, graduating from Fairfield High School in 1978. She later pursued a degree in Computer Programming from Iowa Western Community College, graduating in 1982.

Karen built a successful career at First Data, where she was admired by her colleagues for her leadership, kindness, and unwavering dedication. She had an extraordinary ability to bring people together and inspire them to achieve great things.

Karen’s family was her greatest joy. During her first marriage she welcomed her first son, Justin Steven Smith, in 1984, who became the light of her life. Later, she married Tim Buchan, gaining two wonderful stepdaughters, Jessica Caron and Jennifer Griesemer (deceased). Together, they welcomed their son, Nicholas James Buchan, in 1995.

Tim and Karen were married for 34 years and shared a love of travel and cherished time spent with their large extended family. Karen was an exceptional planner who meticulously crafted itineraries for every trip, ensuring seamless and memorable experiences. She had many passions, including a deep love for “The Wizard of Oz,” collecting Hallmark ornaments, gardening, and creating stunning scrapbooks and handmade cards. Her creativity and attention to detail brought joy to everyone around her.

Karen adored being a grandmother, and her grandchildren, Blake and Sydney (children of Justin and Pam), were the center of her world. She planned fun outings, sleepovers filled with crafts, movies, and snacks, and shared endless laughs. Her grandchildren loved her house—where there were no rules, eating a good dinner before you got dessert was optional, and she always had “the good peanut butter.”

Karen’s strength and resilience inspired everyone who knew her. She bravely battled and defeated cancer once, and in her final battle, she displayed unparalleled courage and grace.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Deborah Louise (Cox) Wesely; parents, Robert Barry Cox and Ruth Jean Hartman; stepdaughter, Jennifer Griesemer; several beloved extended family members.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Tim Buchan; son, Justin Smith (Pam); son, Nicholas Buchan; stepdaughter, Jessica Caron; brother, Steve Cox (Sara); cherished grandchildren, Sydney and Blake Smith; nieces and nephews and countless friends who became like family. She will also be missed by Jessica and Jennifer’s children.

A Celebration of Karen’s incredible life will be held on Sunday December 29th @ 11am at the Omaha Firefighters Union Hall with ceremony and luncheon to follow, 6005 Grover St.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Make-A-Wish of Nebraska.

Rest in peace, Karen. You were loved beyond words and will be missed beyond measure.

Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler, West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha, Ne 68124. (402)-391-3900. www.heafeyheafey.com