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BORN
1951
DIED
2025
Karen Bakke Obituary
Karen came into this world with energy and enthusiasm on September 12, 1951. She was born to Dr. Jay Newhall DVM and Jane Helen Snure Newhall in Bozeman, Montana. Karen was one of four Newhall children; Bob, Sue and Jo. Like all children living on a ranch, Karen was a horseback rider, picked rocks in the hay pastures, drove equipment, helped with calving and many more chores. She also worked in her mother Jane's store, "The Crossroads".
Karen graduated from Bozeman High in 1970. She was a kind and nurturing person with endless compassion. She moved to Spokane eventually, where she cared for our Uncle Bob. Bob had suffered a debilitating injury as a co-pilot on a B-52 Bomber that crashed in Denver, Colorado.
While in Spokane Karen met her soon to be husband, Jim Bakke and his two children, Sara and Eric. Jim and Karen made a life together in Spokane where Karen enjoyed being a homemaker and bringing kindness, enthusiasm, helpfulness, and generosity to their neighbors and friends. She made beautiful quilts and purses that she shared with many friends, families and strangers!
Karen suffered numerous progressively debilitating medical conditions which she met with uncomplaining grace and "Montana toughness". She eventually had to give up sewing and turned her talents to making cookies for friends, family, neighbors and her medical providers.
Karen showed her nieces and nephews endless love and attention! She was so proud to be an aunt!
A memorial service is planned for August 23. If you would like to attend the service, please email: [email protected] for details.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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