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Karen Sydow Obituary

December 9, 1959 - September 5, 2021 A Special SisterIn memory of my sister who never had wants or misgivings. She was born with Cerebral Palsy and could never speak more than three words.1) Mom2) Donalds (she loved McDonalds)3) Piano (she love music)The past 2 years with Covid made seeing her beyond difficult, only recently were we getting back to normal.Our father passed in 2007 and our mother this year, May 2021.On my last outing with Karen, we took a sunny bike ride; she laughed and clapped her hands. When we stopped by the lake for picnic lunch, Karen said "Mom, mom".I held her and told her "mom is not here anymore". Karen totally out of the norm put her head on my shoulder and tears ran down her cheek. Yes she understood.Two weeks later she passed away; I think she really wanted to be with mom.Karen, I wish I could have made you laugh one more time. I needed you too.Love your brother ErikThank you to all that helped in Karen's care for so many years at Valley Village and Tierra del Sol.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Los Angeles Times from Sep. 18 to Sep. 19, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Karen Sydow

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Erick

September 4, 2024

This is still so touching no matter how many times I read it...and I've read it every year since Karen left this world. Prayers to her family.

Carson Loveless

September 3, 2024

Condolences to her family

Sarah, UK

September 30, 2023

In memory of Karen

Barbara

September 21, 2023

May this wonderful soul R.I.P.

Chris Bongardt

February 17, 2022

Erik your obituary for both your sister and mom were beautiful. You are such a special person and your family was so lucky to have each other.
I hope you have peace that you did everything you could to brighten your sister's life with your creative ways to bring her joy. You.Are.Awesome! Chris in California

Agatha Daniels

October 12, 2021

So sorry for your loss of your sister KAREN...JOPE SHE IS AT PEACE...I LOST MY SPECIAL NEEDS SISTER IN 2019...O MISS HER SO MUCH...GLAD YOU WERE ABLE TO TAKE HER ON A PICNIC...PRAYERS FOR YOUR FAMILY...

Jan Eagye

October 5, 2021

What a wonderful tribute to your sister.
Heartwarming.
Time to take care of Erik, may karma reward you every day.

Gabriela Alvarez

September 24, 2021

Dear Erik, my most sincere condolences. My younger brother passed away 6 years ago at age of 20, he was also diagnosed with CP. Not that a day goes by that I don´t think of him and his beautiful smile that just filled my heart with so much love. He was my best friend and I loved every moment spent caring for him. I can´t tell you that the pain of not having them physically with us gets any better, because it really doesn´t. May our sweet angels Rest In Peace, and may God give you the strength and peace you need in these moments.

Peter Fidelman

September 24, 2021

I wuld first say that I understand your grief at the passing of your sister. I also share a special sister who triumphed through life with some joys and some sorrows. She was different than your sister in early life but then her CP became worse and worse. Still she as maintained an indomitable spirit. She is special in so many many ways

Ahmad Omar

September 24, 2021

Erik, sir. Im so sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing what you did, it resonated within me. My kid brother had special needs and passed going on four years now, he was in his early 30's.
Not a single day has went by since his passing where I have not thought of him. Even earlier today, I was listening to some sad songs, thinking of him, speaking to him as I shed some tears. It brings me some solace knowing he is not suffering anymore, as he did suffer a lot and when I dont think selfishly that helps me accept his loss. But because I am human accepting his loss is something that I never will be able to do. One day I pray we see our loved ones again. God bless you and your loved ones, sir.

Sheila Goff Cottingham

September 23, 2021

Erik, your relationship with your sister is very touching and one that my daughter has with her brother who has special needs. She was blessed to have you not just as her brother, but her closest friend too! May God comfort you through the loss of her and your Mom.

Chelsea

September 23, 2021

Im so sorry for your loss. She was so lucky to have you as her brother and you were lucky to have her too. May she rest in peace with mom and dad and may you all laugh together again one day. Much love to you. The world needs more like you.

Laura G.

September 23, 2021

Erik,
All of the world could use a big brother like you!
Your tribute to your sister touched my heart.
God bless you.

L. Cullen

September 23, 2021

The abiding affection for your dear sister touched my heart. I feel as though I know her through your wonderful tribute. I love her smile. Thanks for sharing her story with the world.

Rebecca from Michigan

September 23, 2021

I'm so sorry for your loss. I have a special brother too that turned 52 last month. I've only seen him a couple times since COVID-19 hit, which has been hard. I'm hoping to get to my parents soon to spend time with him - I miss him terribly. Having a disabled sibling is a club shared by few that gives blessings that no one else can understand. Big hug to you! You're sister was blessed to have you all in her life, as you were to have her in yours.

Crystal Brown

September 23, 2021

I´m so sorry for your loss. This was a beautiful memorial.

Julie B

September 23, 2021

So very sorry for your loss. What a blessing she was to you and you to her. Doesn't Everyone want a big brother exactly like you? Yes most certainly! Your memories of her will be with you until you meet Karen and your Mother and Father in eternity in heaven. Thank you for being such a caring, kind brother and son. I know God is bringing you comfort and peace only he can bring in these sad time. So Thankful for your bike ride by the lake and time to laugh and love together.
Love and Prayer from Texas<3

RN Sandra Phillips

September 23, 2021

Being the parent of a special person, you remembrance of your sister brings joy to my heart and a tear to my eyes. I hope my girls feel the same about their brother, I think they do!

Orlo

September 23, 2021

You've been a great big brother all your life!
So sorry to hear about your mom and Karen - - what a very rough year.
Hugs my friend.

Nathalie

September 23, 2021

Hello, from Montreal, Quebec, Canada, my sincerest condolences on the loss of your beautiful sister, thanks for sharing your raw, honest feelings towards your sister, it shows you had a strong bond. God Bless!

Patricia

September 23, 2021

Erik I wish I had a brother like you. Your sweet words for your sister have touched so many. I´m so sorry about Karen.

God bless you and bring you peace

Love and prayers from NJ

Tracie

September 23, 2021

Erik, it seems like Karen couldn´t have asked for a better brother than you. Please know your words have touched so many and you have a whole bunch of people wishing you nothing but happy memories of Karen. I always try to remember between hello and goodbye, there was love...so much love.

Emily McGee

September 23, 2021

I´m so sorry for your loss. This was a beautiful memorial.

Anonymous

September 23, 2021

Deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy, from my family to yours. As a sister, who lost my brother suddenly in August 2020, I know the pain of sibling loss, but I hope your road becomes easier to travel.

Becky (from- Somerset, Kentucky)

September 23, 2021

So very sorry for the loss of your beautiful sister Karen, what a beautiful smile and soul... I wish I would of known her... even without word's she knew you loved her!!! what a beautiful soul Heaven has gained, she will always live on in your heart and memories, may GOD bless you for being such a great brother to Karen...GOD will carry you through the pain you have from losing Karen and your mom, what a great day it will be when you are reunited with your family in Heaven... so keep your head high, carry on and be very proud of yourself...your in my thought's and prayers... Thank you so very much for sharing Karen with all of us....Becky

Steve Plat

September 23, 2021

Good morning old friend. Remember me ???

Steve Plat

September 23, 2021

My sincerest condolences on your loss my friend do you remember me we grew up together and went to Highland Road elementary school and junior high and high school I live in Las Vegas I´d sure like to talk to you call me at 702-272-2824 God bless you ERIK and Karen. Steve

Brad

September 23, 2021

From Texas, your sister knew she was loved her whole life. By your parents, and by her brother. That last bike ride and picnic you shared made her happy, and God bless you for being such a good brother for her. I am sorry for your loss, and may the Lord ease your hurt soon. Just know, you did your best for her, and she is looking down from heaven with no pain, and talking about what a good brother you were. God bless you.

Cenaia

September 22, 2021

Dear Erik,
Reading your message to your Beautiful Sister says how much love you had for her.My heart has been touched by your kind words to your sister. Karen was a lucky woman to have had you as a brother and caregiver. I pray you find solace and peace knowing Karen is way watching over you as well as your parents . My deepest sympathies and condolences to you and your family.
God Bless You

LeAnne

September 22, 2021

Hello from Knoxville, TN! Your beautiful words are such a blessing to see there is still so much good in this world. You truly loved your sister and what a precious feeling. God bless you.

Franchesca

September 22, 2021

RIP Karen...God bless you Erik

James

September 22, 2021

Erik, There is a special place for you in heaven. These are memories that will never be forgotten.

Caroline Wyatt

September 22, 2021

Oh Erik, to have the love of family is the greatest gift. I´m so sorry for the loss of your mom, dad and sister, but your character beams through your authentic words, and I believe karen knew exactly how much you loved her despite her limited conventional communication ability. I pray your family will be bonded in love - forever.

Bill

September 22, 2021

You are a great brother!

Lynn

September 22, 2021

Thinking of both of you with is: "Well done, good and faithful servant."
Matthew 25:23

Glenn B. (a Stranger)

September 22, 2021

What a wonderful message! Now she is able to speak, as she joins her Father and Mother. No more difficulties.

The same condition afflicted my cousin, but she went first, then my uncle, then my aunt.

Special blessing await all!

Jaye

September 22, 2021

Dear Eric,
May the love you shared and memories created be Karen's legacy for you to cherish always. My condolences to you.

Susan

September 22, 2021

This epitomizes unconditional love . My heart has been blessed to read this.

Lori

September 22, 2021

Dear Erik, it seems we all need Karen.

A in the United Kingdom

September 22, 2021

Hi Erik,

Your heartfelt words about your sister are truly something special and the picture you have chosen is one of true happiness.

I wish you the best in these trying times.

Group of 10 Memorial Trees

Anonymous In Metro Detroit

Planted Trees

B.P.

September 22, 2021

Greetings from Tennessee!
Great story, But Karens walking with her Mom, Dad, and Jesus now. And carrying on conversations too! :)

William

September 22, 2021

Dear Eric:

God who "is love" has a wonderful plan for people like yourself, your Sister and loving parents. You will see her and them again in much better times and perfect health. This promise comes from a "God who loves you" and "cannot lie". I pray you have peace while waiting for that wonderful future day. My condolences on the loss of your beautiful Sister.

Thank you,
Bill

Kent

September 22, 2021

Beautiful reflections by a brother who loved his sister.

Dan

September 22, 2021

From Maryland, I am very sorry for your loss and I hope that you find peace in knowing that she is now with your parents in the Kingdom Of Heaven. Rest In Peace Karen.

Heidi

September 22, 2021

Erik, may angel´s wings carry those beautiful memories to your heart and mind each and every day. What an amazing heart you both have...a beautiful tribute to your sweet sweet sister.

Susan Gillette

September 22, 2021

I am so sorry for your loss of your sister Karen. What a beautiful tribute to her. Praying that God will give you peace, and hold on to the precious memories of your sister, and Mother & Father. Karen will know how many lives she touched, that she did not even know..she did mine..

Jason Duke, Cheyenne WY

September 22, 2021

Reading this it broke my heart and made me smile at the same time. You guys were fortunate to have each other.

Kelly

September 22, 2021

From Iowa. The love of a brother and sister is never ending.
May she find happiness with her mom mom now.
My heart and prayers are with the family

Nanci

September 22, 2021

So sorry for your loss. We all could learn something from Karen. Enjoy life, never take anything or anyone for granted. Thank you for sharing, God bless.

Mike

September 22, 2021

Eric , you are a special person and an inspiration for many. I know your sister, mom and dad are looking down on you. May their memories always be a blessing.

Pat Martin

September 22, 2021

Beautiful. Completely beautiful.

Grove of 100 Memorial Trees

CM

Planted Trees

Amanda Hixson

September 22, 2021

Praying that God will bless you with memories that make you smile. Your words spoke volumes about the love you have for your sister.
May God bless you and keep you close in His arms.

Maryann Bova

September 22, 2021

Erik, your words are such a poignant tribute to the love you had for your baby sister.
Karen's smile was infectious in the photographs, radiating such joy just to be at the park with her big brother.
Erik, try not to grieve your loss, and instead celebrate her life.

Mary

September 22, 2021

Condolences to you and all that love your sister. She has touched so many people across the internet, because of your touching tribute. My hope is that she and your mother are enjoying their reunion.

Frank Nussbaum

September 21, 2021

A beautiful tribute about love and life. Thank you for sharing. Deepest condolences.

Laurie Romand

September 21, 2021

God blessed Karen with such a wonderful family, and Karen memory has blessed us all. Heaven gained a beautiful soul. Hugs to you Erik

Teresa pinnex

September 21, 2021

Thanks for your love for your sisters now she can be with her parents in eternity

Janice Wolfendale

September 21, 2021

I just read your loving obituary of your sister. My heart goes out to you and your family. My sister also has CP and this really touched me. My deepest sympathy. May your parents and sister rest in peace

Lisa Palacios

September 21, 2021

Thank you for sharing your sister with us. I´m in tears reading her obituary. "I love, I love" heaven has another angel

Linda

September 21, 2021

Erik, I read the obituary for your sister, Karen that was shared on Facebook. What a beautiful tribute for a beautiful soul. May those happy memories help to ease the pain of the loss of Karen and you Mom. (From Western Massachusetts).

Melinda

September 21, 2021

Your sister has brought out the very best on the internet. Strangers are grieving with you for the kids if your sister. The hank you for sharing her with us and your tribute to her via internet.

Much love and prayers from Southern Indiana

Andrew

September 21, 2021

You are a good man Erik.
Beautiful words.

Zach S

September 21, 2021

I saw the obituary from Daniel Miller on Twitter. It's stunning how in so few words you gave us a clear picture of the kind of soul we lost. Sorry for your loss Erik, hopefully, Karen and your mother are in a better place <3

Kathleen

September 21, 2021

Thank you for loving you family. I heard about your tribute just now on the radio. May your parents and sister rest in peace.

Rebecca

September 21, 2021

Erik, I am so sorry for the loss of your mom and sister. Your words for both of them were beautiful.

Pat Bryant

September 21, 2021

So sorry for your loss. Spread your wings and fly, Karen!

Kristin

September 21, 2021

I saw your sister's obituary shared on Facebook.
What a loving tribute.
Please know you have a whole world of people sending you prayers and condolences.
We can all learn so much from your sister - love, kindness, appreciation. An amazing legacy.

Sherry

September 21, 2021

Heaven gained a special angel. My condolences.

KM

September 21, 2021

Sending love and a big thank you from Dallas. You blessed my day with the loving tribute to Karen. The sight of Golden Arches will now be reminders of that smiling sister of yours. Peace and sweet memories.

Erick Taylor

September 21, 2021

My sincere condolences to you and your family. This touched my heart to the core. Just reading this showed just how much love you and your sis had for one another. I'm sure she's smiling brotha.

Steve

September 21, 2021

That is beautiful. Thank you for sharing.

Caroline Campbell

September 21, 2021

My deepest condolences, this obituary was shared on Facebook and I was blessed that it came over my feed. I am humbled by your love for your sister. Thank you.

(another) Karen

September 21, 2021

"Death takes the body.
God takes the soul.
Our mind holds the memories.
Our heart keeps the love.
Our faith lets us know we will meet again."

Peace be with you.

Deena

September 21, 2021

Your sisters obituary was shared by a news media anchorman in Albany New York and I am sending you my condolences on the loss of your sweet soul sister. May you find comfort that her obituary showed many what real love is all about simply by being shared online. That is the power of our creator speaking up about its importance in this world. I hope my message wraps around you like a warm blanket in your time of need. Respectfully, Deena of the 518 of NYS

Sarah

September 21, 2021

You and your sister were blessed to have each other. I'm sorry for your loss.

Nancy

September 21, 2021

The loss of this beautiful soul makes me so sad, but the fact that she existed makes me happy. I wish you comfort during this difficult time.

Kara

September 21, 2021

Didn´t know your sister I was inspired to read her obituary. The heart and the soul always knows. What a beautiful tribute. May you have comfort during these difficult times,may her memory, and the memory of your love ones ,hold a beautiful space in your

Brianna

September 21, 2021

I am sorry for your loss. May your sister rest in peace.

Adrienne

September 21, 2021

So sorry for your loss Erik. Karen seemed like a wonderful soul and a beautiful person inside. Thoughts and prayers for you Erik

Maura

September 21, 2021

The love between you is so beautiful just so you know your sister's obituary was shared by a reporter in Albany New York and that is where I read it. So know that your sister touched more lives than you even knew... Love from Albany NY.

Mita

September 21, 2021

I am so sorry for your loss. May she rest in peace and may you have the strength to overcome this loss. Thank you for sharing about her. Sending my prayers.

K´Deen

September 21, 2021

God Bless your Heart Karen

Brendan Desmond

September 21, 2021

Erik,

I am so sorry for the losses you´ve had over these recent years. I found the obituary and felt compelled to write. I am the big brother to Kelsey, a wonderful young woman who like Karen is without wants or misgivings. Being her brother has shown me how to be gentle and compassionate, and revealed the true capacity of my heart. She has given me the love and strength I need to care for my son who has his own special needs.

I live in constant dread of the day we say goodbye, but your note has given me great strength. God bless you and Karen and the parents who raised you both.

Patti

September 21, 2021

I am so sorry for your loss. She is flying high now with angels. Running and playing like never before may that give you some peace not only that but she is with your parents. God Bless

Andrea

September 21, 2021

You have managed to not only gracefully share the love of your family to the world but brought strangers together with your words. My thoughts & prayers go out to you during this time. I pray i have the same strength & wording as you whenever the day comes to say goodbye.

Thomas Shea

September 20, 2021

You did your duty...God will always have a special place waiting for you.

Neesh

September 20, 2021

Your words are so moving. I wish you all the peace and happiness in the world.

Debbie D.

September 20, 2021

I´m so sorry for your unfathomable loss. Thank you from the depth of heart for sharing your heart.

Alyssa "Sissy" Bell

September 20, 2021

Mr. Erik,
First that was so beautiful. Where I am from we have a saying on the outer banks... The wind that fills our sails are the whispers of love from those those that have passed. May your sails always be filled with the memories of her smiles laughter and love; and she continue to help guide you to the calm waters.

Allison

September 20, 2021

I´m so sorry for your loss. Sending prayers to you.

Josh

September 19, 2021

Erik, I´m so sorry for your loss. Bless you for being there for your sister after your parents could no longer be there to carry the torch. Karen has found her peace, I hope you are finding yours in this life as well.

Thank you from sisters everywhere

September 19, 2021

As a sister It´s nice to read that you need us. Now I´m sure thanks to your kind words you´ll get lots of makeshift siblings . God Bless you

Daniel

September 19, 2021

Erik, your tribute to your sister was beautiful. It touched my heart. I'm very sorry for your loss and pray for your comfort. God bless!

Jackie W.

September 19, 2021

My sincere condolences. Saw this on a friend of mines post. Truly moved my heart and saddened to know that your sister has passed. My heart is with you.

Erin

September 19, 2021

Dear Erik,

I have a relative who worked at Tierra Del Sol who talked happily many times of the student who always said "piano". I showed them the obituary and they were very moved by it, as was I. It has been many years since my relative has worked at Tierra Del Sol, but they never forgot about Karen. I am thankful for Karen's positive impact on this world and pray that happier days are coming soon for you and your family.

Donna

September 19, 2021

I was so moved by your tribute to your sister Karen. When I read it to my husband, I cried. What an amazing brother you are. "I needed you too." Peace

Mary Phillips

September 19, 2021

Condolences from Cape Breton. You sound like a wonderful brother with a beautiful sister.

Derrick

September 19, 2021

I did not know Karen and only saw this posted today on a friends timeline, but your touching tribute stuck with me since reading it. The compassion you wrote this tribute to your sister Erik was touching and meaningful.

If we can be nothing else except one thing, then let that to be kind!

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