Karen S. Frates

Karen Sue Frates (Bivins) of Mountain Home, Idaho died at home at the age of 74 on June 29, 2026 after a 2 year battle with cancer. 

Karen was born September 14, 1951 in Ontario, Oregon to Clarence and Helena Bivins. She is survived by her husband Thomas Frates, her daughters Debra Frost and Jaclyn (Jeremy) Claunch, and by her grandchildren Thomas Frost, Samuel Frost, Patrick Frost, Macha Frost, Adrianna Ridley, Bianca Ridley, Luke Ridley, Evan Claunch, Avery Claunch, and Carson Claunch, by her brother Loyd Bivins, and her sisters Barbara Wildman and Linda Bivins. 

She was predeceased by her parents Clarence and Helena Bivins, her sisters June Toll and Clarice Christensen, and many other loved ones. 

Karen graduated from New Plymouth High School in 1969. She and Tom were married a year later and began a wonderful 55 year journey together. In 1973 Tom joined the Air Force and she accompanied him through many assignments, but she loved Alaska the best where they spent 11 years. She spent her time babysitting at home and working at the base library. She loved to read, so her job was a match made in heaven. In 1993 they moved to Mountain Home, Idaho where she resided until her death. She spent her time spoiling her grandkids, reading, planning and going on many road trips and other travel adventures, and sewing quilts. Karen was a devoted wife and soul mate. She and Tom shared a special bond that few people ever experience. 

There are no services planned and she will be interred at Rosedale Memorial Cemetery in Payette, Idaho. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the St. Luke’s