Karen Larson Obituary

LARSON Karen Larson, born on July 9, 1949, entered into heaven on December 10, 2012, after a two year battle with cancer. In her last days, Karen drafted some thoughts about her life for those who shared her life and her love of animals. "I loved growing up in Middletown, New Jersey where I especially enjoyed the beach. Being at the beach provided me a joy that continued throughout my life. I came to Columbus with my parents, Doris and Clifford Larson, (who preceded me in death) during high school. I graduated from Capital University with a BS in Physical Education. I appreciated the lifelong friendship of my brother, George William "Bill" Larson and his wife Ilissa. I enjoyed playing sports, especially softball and volleyball, with many fun teammates and coaches. I also appreciated my kind colleagues at Chemical Abstract Service, where I worked for over 30 years. I was grateful to live in a condo complex with good neighbors, and especially my back door neighbor who shared her life with me. But the love of my life was always being around dogs. I was proud to help with the creation of the Alum Creek Dog Park, volunteer at the Franklin County Dog Shelter, and be part of the rescue program for shy dogs. My German Shepherds, (Stormy, Casey, and Abbey) brought joy to my life for many years. I appreciate the friends that found a loving new home for Emma and Misty. I'm thankful to have volunteered with many wonderful people who love dogs and who know, as I do, that a dog's unconditional love is a substance of life. I hope you will support your local animal shelter (with money, supplies, or time) and share in the joy that I had in doing it." In lieu of a service, friends are invited to gather in the Community Room from 4-6 p.m. on Sunday, December 16, 2012 at the Franklin County Dog Shelter at 4340 Tamarack Blvd., Columbus, Ohio.

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

Published by The Columbus Dispatch from Dec. 13 to Dec. 14, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Karen Larson

8 Entries

Eileen Richardson

December 19, 2012

I did not really know Karen, even though we worked in the same building for many years. But I knew her car---the one with all the doggy nose prints on the windows. It always made me smile.

K. Pierson

December 17, 2012

Karen lived in the same community as I do-She was my hero for many reasons. Even thru chemo she remained inependent-did not want anyone to "go out of their way" to help her, even with such simple things as helping take the grocerys in from the car.Karen always had a smile on her face-even tho it was obvious she was in great pain.She was selfless in the time she spent at the dog shelter. And she absolutely LOVED all 4 legged children, those who belonged to her and those who were waiting for new parents/homes. Karen was instrumental in helping me get my sweet little 4 leged child too.If you haven't already done so, take a trip ou to the Alum Creek Dog Park and appreciate one of the things she helped accomplish for all of us who have animals<3

December 17, 2012

Reynoldsburg amazing woman with such a sweet heart. She showed so much compassion and love towards everyone even through her hard last final days. She especially showed great care and love towards my grandmother and her two dogs,who was her neighbor behind her. The love and care that she showed will not be forgotten she will live on in the stories that are shared And the hearts that she has touched.

Roxanne Hileman

December 15, 2012

Karen was a very special person who touched many lives, human and canine. Rest In Peace my friend, I know that you had many true loves waiting for you at Rainbow bridge to cross with you to your special place in heaven.

Ann Wennberg

December 14, 2012

The world lost an amazing person when Karen died, but heaven got a new angel. We'll miss you dearest one and will keep you forever in our hearts.

Love Ann, David, Leeza & Apollo

Maria Scott

December 14, 2012

For years at CAS, Karen was the person I looked to whenever we had a project that just had to be done by a certain (seemingly impossible) time. I knew she would put everything she had into getting the work done on time. While she was going through chemo, I found out she put that same spirit into helping the dogs at the shelter. As tired as I know chemo makes you, Karen drove several very long trips alone to ensure that the dogs got to their new owners. I will always cherish knowing someone like Karen.

Kathy Soukup

December 14, 2012

I'm so sorry to hear that Karen has passed away. I can't remember seeing her without a smile on her face. She was such a nice person. I also remember the years we played softball together and worked at CAS. My deepest sympathy.

Susan Smith

December 13, 2012

Karen's devotion to the dogs at the shelter was an inspiration to all of us. She gave her time and love generously, even when she knew her time here was nearing the end. Karen never wanted any recognition for her achievements, but she accomplished great things in her quiet, unassuming way. She made a real difference in the lives of the dogs she befriended at the shelter, and they loved her for it.

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