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KAREN SUE (GOTTFRIED) WILLIAMS
September 24, 1942 ~ April 20, 2012
Karen's children would like to invite friends and family to her final farewell. She trained hundreds of teachers through Creative Ed. She dedicated over 30 years to the Vancouver School District. Karen was a long time Altrusan.
Born to Leo and Mary Gottfried. As a Catholic School girl it is surprising that she picked up the love of her life in a bar, her husband Bill. He could not imagine living without her and precedes her in death. The children of Karen's heart are Roberta, Bambii, Karii, Kasii, T'ia, Machelle and Darrell.
She is survived by her Darlene; Don (Diane) and Steve(Jo); sister-in-laws, Maryella, Marla (Elmo) and Barbara; children, Bradford and Leslie (Cameron); granddaughters, Summer, Audra, Hannah; great-granddaughter, Kloie; and best friend, Sherry.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Immaculate Heart 2926 N Williams Ave., Portland, OR 97227.
Service is April 30, Rosary at 1:30 p.m., Mass at 2:00 p.m.
Please sign Karen's Guest Book at www.columbian.com/obits.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
There are times when someone you know stands out from the rest. I was saddened to hear of the recent passing of Karen. To me, she was someone who represents, in the best way, the spirit of someone who cared not only about staff and kids, but about the community. Requiescat in pace, Karen.
Craig Peterson
May 6, 2012
It was my honor to work with Karen. Her knowledge and expertise taught me so much and has been invaluable. Also, her good nature and humor always gave perspective to the work that we do. Along with all the people she has touched, I will miss her.
Alice Winczer
May 1, 2012
May God's love strengthen you and give you comfort and God's blessings surround your family in this difficult time.
April 30, 2012
April 29,2012
Karen has been a mentor and friend since the time she (and Bob Rylander) interviewed me for a job in 1977. She had the patience of Job and a heart as big as Texas. Her skills were innumerable and she had a wonderfully quick wit and sense of humor. It's hard to believe we will no longer hear her voice and her laughter. Notwithstanding all she has been through she always was upbeat and hopeful. She will be sorely missed. My heartfelt condolences go out to Brad and Leslie and all her family and friends.
Janis Eydenberg
April 29, 2012
I had the privilege of working along side Karen for many years. I observed her skill, patience, and kind nature as she helped severely impacted children learn self expression through a variety of modes. Karen had a delightful sense of humor and a quick wit. Karen contributed so much good in many areas of our community. She will be missed.
Susan Cone
April 29, 2012
Karen spent a lot of time with our son, Geoffrey, who lives with autism. She was very patient. Our sympathy in her passing.
Pam Otton
April 28, 2012
Karen helped ever so many teachers to get their special ed. certification. But even greater was the quality of her friendship with all. Vancouver Schools and Seattle Pacific University will miss her. I will miss her.
Kay Melroy Douglass
April 27, 2012
Aunt Karen was such a wonderful person. She was the most patient person and best listener I ever met. She will be greatly missed. She will forever remain in my thoughts and in my heart.
Sarah Child
April 26, 2012
Karen never failed to make every Altrusan smile at District Twelve Conferences. She was the epitome of charm and loveliness. Her hats were so fun and she wore them with such panache. She'll always have a special place in our hearts.
MaryAlice Ridgway, Altrusa International of Pendleton, Oregon
April 26, 2012
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