KAREN FAKER

Karen Alvestad Faker Our beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend left her lifelong home of Gig Harbor to begin her new journey in heaven on June 17, 2009. Karen Alvestad Faker was born September 4, 1952, to Ben and Ingrid Alvestad in Gig Harbor, where she lived her entire life. The Alvestads were one of the founding families in Gig Harbor, and Karen was always proud of her Norwegian heritage. She graduated from Peninsula High School in 1970 and Central Washington University in 1974 with a degree in Sociology. After marrying the love of her life, Jerry Faker in 1977, they had three children, Jared, Chad, and Kelli. For 22 years, Karen worked as a school bus driver for the Peninsula School District where she was a union president for two terms. She drove the special needs children who had a special place in her heart until she retired in 2003. Karen was involved in many activities including the Dr. Penrose Orthopedic Guild, whose proceeds go towards Mary Bridge Children's Hospital. She was also involved in the Gig Harbor Eagles, Daughters of Norway, monthly Bunco nights, bowling, shopping, boating, and spending time with friends and family. She was an incredible cook who had the ability to turn an ordinary meal into an elegant event. She will always be remembered for her genuine warmth and generosity. Her life touched and blessed all who have met her, and she will be dearly missed. She is survived by her husband of 32 years, Jerry; her children, Jared (Wendy), Chad, Kelli; her father, Ben; her brothers, John (Kathy), Ken (Sue), David; many nieces, nephews, and countless friends and relatives including many residing in Norway. She was preceded in death by her mother, Ingrid. A memorial service will be held Sunday, June 28, at 1:30 PM at Peninsula Lutheran Church (6509 38th Ave NW, Gig Harbor), followed by a celebration of her life immediately afterwards at the Gig Harbor Eagles Lodge. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be sent to: Mary Bridge Children's Hospital via Dr. Penrose Guild, c/o TOA, PO Box 5299, Tacoma, WA 98415.