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KARYN COLFER Obituary

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, Karyn Colfer. Karyn was born and raised in the Fresno and Clovis area. A Clovis West High School graduate, she went on to work for Anesthesia Consultants of Fresno and Senior Helpers. Karyn was a passionate mother and devoted her life to caring for her daughter's seizure disorder, all the while supporting her son's performing and writing aspirations. She is survived by her husband Tim; son Christopher; daughter Hannah; mother, Fawnda Runyon; father, Wayne Boling; and siblings, Lori Nabors, Russell Boling, Pamela Brochini, Kathryn Boling, and Shannon Runyon. A private service was held for close friends and family members. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Karyn's name to The Make A Wish Foundation, wish.org; and F.A.C.E.S., Finding a Cure for Epilepsy and Seizures, nyufaces.com.

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

Published by Fresno Bee on Jan. 24, 2016.

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JS

January 18, 2025

God bless Karyn and her family. May her memory be a blessing.

Kate Roberts

November 9, 2024

Chris, I´m sorry for your loss of your mother. My deepest condolences for your family and you! My father died a month after Naya died and I know how it feels to lose a parent! Love you brother and best friend !

Janet Townsend

April 29, 2023

Dear Chris, I only recently discovered that your mom, Karyn, died in 2016, and I am so very, very sorry this has happened to you and Hannah, as well as your dad. It is almost inconceivable that someone would die in their 50s these days, so I was shocked when I heard this news. I'm sure you and the rest of your family still miss her. I remember watching Glee when your Glee mom passed away and you were touched when you found her perfume bottle. Sometimes it's the little things . . .
Hugs to all of you, Hannah, and your father.

October 9, 2019

I saw Chris on Jimmy Fallon last week & was in disbelief when he mentioned in passing his mom had passed away. I feel so bad for him & especially his sister. I love Chris & can't believe this horrific news passed me by. I'm so so sorry for your loss. My daughter got to meet Karyn Colfer & told me what a special lady she was. RIP...

Tammie Trenter

June 6, 2019

Chris Colfer I could not imagine your pain and loss.. I think it is just as hard for a child to lose a mother as a mother losing a child.. I know its been awhile now but I'm sure the pain still sneaks up on you every once in awhile... My heart is with you..

S. Marczyski

June 5, 2019

May you rest in peace, Karyn.. you're a wonderful woman

Tammie Trenter

April 7, 2019

Wow I'm so sorry for your loss.. I just found out about her passing.. My love is with the loved ones left behind..

Nwanne Nwosisi

April 11, 2018

I am so sorry for your loss. Your son and daughter are great people, and it's no surprise where they get their greatness from.

Ashley Fink

August 16, 2017

RIP Karyn

August 14, 2017

Rest peacefully

ryan lemon

April 23, 2017

rest in peace karyn colfer you are missed

Michelle P

April 22, 2017

I will forever remember her absolutely, unequivocally, resounding Joy whenever She spoke of her magnificent Children and Husband. Her smile never waivered, it was always there ... I feel honored to have met/known her, however brief ... My complete condolences to this remarkable family.

my favotet football player

ryan lemon

January 25, 2017

rest in peace karyn colfer I bet your son my idol chris colfer still misses you a lot but you are still his mom allways

January 17, 2017

you will e\be missed

Vanessa Colfer

January 15, 2017

It's been a year and I still miss you every day. :( ❤ RIP Karyn

August 1, 2016

Missing you my friend...

Kristin TLOS

July 22, 2016

Rest in peace. ❤

June 10, 2016

Miss u :'-(

May 10, 2016

RIP Karyn
We will never forget you

i love you

ryan lemon

May 9, 2016

chris colfer im sorry about your mom died chris colfer you and Darren criss are my idols

françois Nardou

May 8, 2016

Chris, I think of you in this Month of May when you were born ,26 years ago....

Grace Cairney

May 7, 2016

Chris sometimes it's difficult to know when you are happy again when you lose someone you love .. It takes time to learn to live with your loss but you will honey I promise and you will remember all the good times and most of all the LOVE that will never pass .. Love to all your family Chris ❤

Grace Cairney

May 7, 2016

Chris it hurts to lose someone you love and no matter what is said at the time doesn't ease that .. Please believe me it does get better you never forget them you learn to live with your loss but eventually it's the good times you will remember because they will always be with you and you have an amazing LOVE always ❤❤

May 6, 2016

It can be so hard to face the first year without your loved one, but the love of family and friends can carry you through.

March 8, 2016

chris colfer im sorry about your mom but she will still be your mom no matter what don't forget that miss ryan lemon

Ashley Price

February 18, 2016

Rest in peace Karyn. Prayers going to Crhis, Hannah and Tim. Hang in there. Don't give up. Stick together and be there for each other. Like Darren always said to Chris have courage.

ryan lemon

February 15, 2016

chris colfer im sorry about your mom love miss ryan lemon

kelly stull

February 15, 2016

so sorry to hear of your loss. may you find comfort in the memories you have and the way you live your life, as it will always remind you of the love.

Barbara

February 13, 2016

Dear Karyn The love you shared so generously will always burn brightly in the hearts of those dear to you. I pray our Lord grants them peace in the difficult days ahead.

February 5, 2016

Very sad news my thoughts are with you Chris & Hannahfrom Narelle Brisbane Australia

ryan lemon

February 1, 2016

chris coffer im sorry about your mom she will always be your mom no matter what. love miss ryan lemon

Liz Stoeckel

January 31, 2016

Dearest Colfer Family,
I'm so very sorry. I loved, admired, and respected Karyn so much. She was a great mom, an adoring wife, and a good friend. I will miss her so.

Bev Beltz

January 31, 2016

I am saddened to hear of Karyn colfers passing . Condolences for her loving family .R I P . Karyn .

January 31, 2016

Will love and miss you forever. You are now an angle in heaven as you were on earth. I love you. God bless your beautiful family and may you rest in peace my love. With a very heavy heart, all my love. Melissa

Stacy Sample

January 31, 2016

My heart broke when I got the news. I enjoyed my conversations with Karyn and I pray for the family as you mourn her loss.

Irene Vacchetta

January 30, 2016

To Chris, Hannah, Tim, Grandma and Family:

Karyn,
Our hearts are heavy with sadness, but full of love as you have brought so much love, joy & hope to so many worldwide. I have met and talked to you, Hannah & Tim at so many of Chris' book signings; it always brought a smile to my face when I saw the proud parents, sister and friends supporting Chris in a way only they could do. I look forward to the next book signings in support of Chris; Karyn, Your family was your purpose and I know you will
continue to watch over and guide them, God's speed on your next journey. Nothing will be the same without you, but we will eventually smile again, we will always love and support your family, but you are irreplaceable. God bless you and those you loved and were forced to leave; you will never be forgotten.

With love and gratitude for all you have given us. You are the roll model for what all Mothers / Parents strive to be for their children and family; love, understanding, patience, support, their champion & their friend.

Love, Grandma Irene

Book Signing in Mesa, Arizona July 2015

Maribel Cerecerez

January 29, 2016

My deepest condolences to Chris and the Colfer family. Just like Kurt Hummel, family was very important and the loss of a parent has a great impact on you. I had an opportunity to meet Chris Colfer last summer in Arizona and you can tell that he is a well grounded young man with great values. His mom will always be looking after him and continue to guide him throughout his career and personal life. She will be greatly missed.

Brian Nunn

January 29, 2016

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Danielle Shapazian

January 28, 2016

I will always remember Karyn as a devoted mom. I work at Roger Rocka's and I think about Karyn, Hannah and Tim in the lobby waiting for Christopher when he was in the Junior Company. She was always the sweetest and there wasn't a thing she wouldn't do for her kids. I send prayers of strength to the family. She will be missed.

Jill McCarthy Hinds Hospice

January 28, 2016

Karyn was such a beautiful person. I feel honored to have had her touch my life. Your loss is unimaginable. Be gentle with yourselves as you grieve. Blessings to you and your family.

Lynne

January 28, 2016

Thank you Karyn and Tim for raising two great children.I am a big Glee fan and Chris has brought a sweet light into my challenging life.I can never thank you enough for helping him become himself.
Karyn,my prayers go out to all those who love you and miss you. May they find comfort and peace.

Michelle Lynne

January 28, 2016

I'm deeply sorry for you're loss. You're in my prayers and may you be granted serenity to get through such a difficult time. Karyn was a strong woman in whom raised two beautiful children.

Linda Summers

January 27, 2016

We were so lucky to have Karyn come up and visit us in North Idaho, she was truly an Angel. We will miss her so much as I know Tim, Chris, and Hannah will as well as all the other family and friends that had the honor of knowing ang loving her. Love Uncle Matt and Aunt Linda

Amy McClure

January 27, 2016

It came as such a shock to have lost such a bright spirit and loving friend. Karyn you have left us too soon. You gave your heart and soul to your family and wanted only the best lives for them. Bless you now on your next journey and just know you will live forever in our hearts. My sincerest sympathy to Tim, Chris and Hannah. You gave Karyn purpose and were her shining achievements. Bless you.

Tammy (Bratton) Medrano

January 26, 2016

Karyn and I were close friends in high school. We dated brothers at that time. I hadn't seen her in many years. My husband bright to my attention, Chris and his talents. We watched a few interviews with him and his movie. I was so proud of Karyn for raising such an awesome son and i could see the beautiful things I saw in her, in him. I wanted to get back in touch with her, but unfortunately never did. Our condolences and prayers to the Colfer family. Tammy and Richard Medrano

ryan lemon

January 26, 2016

chris colfer im sorry about your mom I know its to say good by to someone you love I will like you to come to yankton south Dakota so you can have meeny vackson I want to meet you in person love you miss ryan lemon

Allison King-Cook

January 26, 2016

My deepest sympathy to the Boling and Colfer families during this sad and difficult time. In addition to Karyn's bright and vibrant spirit she will be remembered for her kindness towards others.

Rose Lee

January 26, 2016

Sorry for your loss.
Thoughts and prayers for all the family.

Toni Prowse

January 26, 2016

I know NO words can EVER be a comfort, but my sincerest heartfelt condolences for you ALL xxx thinking of every single one of you. Lots of love at this time especially, but always xxx

ryan lemon

January 25, 2016

chris im sorry about your mom but she is still your mom and she will allways love you no mater what love miss ryan lemon yankton south dakota

Sandy Johnson

January 25, 2016

Chris I am so sorry to hear about your Mom. My prayers are with you all. Sandy Johnson

Pam and Dino Brochini & Family

January 25, 2016

"God...grant our family the serenity to accept the things we can not change, the courage to change the things we can and the wisdom to know the difference." We will always love you, hold you & your family close to our hearts..we will see each other soon. Until then my little sister Karyn, you rest in peace, and know you were loved and will forever be missed. Tim, Christopher & Hannah...our thoughts, prayers & our deepest sympathy for you all for your tragic loss.

Pamela Simons

January 25, 2016

Our prayers are with you and your entire family. Fond memories of Michael and Chris growing up included you!

Susan Whiley

January 25, 2016

Chris, I'm so sorry for the loss of your mom. My heart and prayers go out to you and your family. May she rest in peace.

Susan Whiley

January 25, 2016

Chris,I'm so sorry for the loss of your mom. My heart goes out to you and your family. May she rest in peace.

Susan Nowlin and Family

January 25, 2016

Sending loving thoughts to Karyn's family. She was a kind, thoughtful and generous person. We are blessed to call her our dear friend and neighbor.

Chris and Karyn on the SBL set.

James Kirk

January 25, 2016

Colfer Family: I am truly saddened by the loss of Karyn. She was a kind women who raised two incredible young adults.

Lisa Silverman

January 25, 2016

I am heartbroken for Chris and his family. Our hearts and prayers are with them.

Eric, Susie Silverman

January 25, 2016

Our hearts are with you. KARYN touched every life in such an amazing positive way!
She leave a big hole in our hearts!

Russell Fike and family

January 25, 2016

I had known you for 43 years. I had just assumed that you would always be here; at our parent's parties, all though high school, across the street. But now you are gone and all those past memories are awash in my head. I love and respect your entire family. The attitude, the strength, the optimism for the future is astonishing and refreshing. This will affect me personally for a long, long time. Of course nothing will ever be the same in the hood, but on we go. Rest well, I look forward to seeing you again in some other place and time.

Armen Bacon

January 25, 2016

The world has lost one of its best angels - a friend whose indomitable spirit, passion for life, devotion to family and overall goodness will be deeply missed. Wrapping my arms around you in comfort and support during this time of unimaginable loss.

janice spivery

janice spivery

January 25, 2016

i feel bad for chris colfer and hannah sorry for your lost

françois Nardou

January 25, 2016

I am heart-broken when I think of Chris Colfer ,his sister and his father ....I knex Chris when looking to Glee....

jennifer mccoy

January 25, 2016

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

jennifer mccoy

January 25, 2016

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Tammy Medrano

January 25, 2016

Our condolences to the Colfer family. Karyn and I were close friends in high school, she was such a sweet and caring person. Prayers to your family. Richard & Tammy (Bratton) Medrano

January 24, 2016

You were the last person I expected to see on this page. I am so upset to see your name here. It hurts my heart so deeply, especially when I think of Hannah. But, I know you're walking with our Father in heaven and that brings me peace. God needs you up there to get it ready for the rest of us. We know you've got our backs. RIP my friend. Xoxo!

Erin

January 24, 2016

My heart breaks for Chris and the entire family. You're all in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you all can find comfort in each other and in the memories you have. She was clearly an amazing woman who raised two wonderful children. I'm so sorry. All my love.

January 24, 2016

Love and peace to you all. God be with you Celia Bourez

January 24, 2016

Deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers to the Colfer family.

Florence Hannoush

January 24, 2016

My deepest sympathy to the Colfer family. You all are in my prayers.

Lindsay Kiser

January 24, 2016

The Colfer Family,
So sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this tragic time.

Emily Wright

January 24, 2016

I couldnt believe what I heard when I found out. My thoughts are with chris, hannah and all other close friends and family members during this time.

Andy Alba

January 24, 2016

Karyn, I'm really going to miss our lunch's at Wassabi! I'll truly miss our long conversations and how proud you were of Hannah and Christopher! You will be sorely missed.

Gillian Barzola

January 24, 2016

You was an amazing woman, mom, wife, daughter, friend, uncle. But now you're in a better place.
All my love and support for Chris, Tim and Hannah...
We will miss you. ♥

bonnie glasgow

January 24, 2016

Sorry for your loss Chris and family. Love know no bounds

Markcho

January 24, 2016

May her light shine on

Ally Klein

January 24, 2016

Peace be with your family..I enjoyed working with you.

Lauren Mosconi

January 24, 2016

This candle is lit in your memory....

Elaine W

January 24, 2016

My thoughts are with Karyn's entire family. What a wonderful spirit she had, I looked forward to her FB posts and her witty personality. Praying for peace and comfort to Tim, Christopher and Hannah.

Lauren Mosconi

January 24, 2016

My thoughts and prayers for your loss. I was always told by my grandpa "loved ones are never gone because you carry them in your hearts". Will keep your family in my prayers.

Oshrit Laufer

January 24, 2016

My thoughts prayers and love goes out to you on time of grief
F.im sorry for your loss and will keep Karyn in my heart.

Kimberly Tadlock

January 24, 2016

I had the privilege of getting to know Karyn through a mutal friend, Tina Brown. Karyn was a special lady, with a big heart! It was beautiful to see the love & commitment she had to her family.
I will especially remember her smile. I'm so thankful I was able to join her & Tina right before Christmas for some girl time.
You will be missed Karyn!
Tim, Hannah & Chris you are in my thoughts and prayers!
Kimberly

Cris Hocicos

January 24, 2016

My condolences go out to Chris, Hannah, Tim and the rest of the family at this time. Sends all my love and prayers.

Lerelle Reed

January 24, 2016

I am so very saddened and so sorry for the loss of such a beautiful and loving friend, mother,wife, sister and Aunt. I loved Karyn very much. She and I have been friends since we were 13. I will always treasure the memories that we made. God Bless Karyn's family through this very difficult time. I will miss her dearly!!!

Alexandra Loehmann

January 24, 2016

Our thoughts and prayers are with Karyn and her family. She will always live in our hearts. Alexandra and family

Eva Tsoungui

January 24, 2016

Just looking at this beautiful family I can say that it was to be an incredible woman. All my condolences to Chris, Hannah, and their father ... I'm sure she will always be proud of you no matter where she is ! Karyn will never be forgotten Lots of love to the family and relatives.

Karolane Herbomez

January 24, 2016

Karyn.
Thank you. You gave to us the most wonderful gift that we can receive; Christopher. A beautiful woman, who loved her chirldren and her husband more than her own life. You will be forever in my heart, one of my regrets is that I didn't had the honor to talk with you and telling you all the things that I wanted to tell you. Bye Karyn. Rest in piece.

adele romano

January 24, 2016

my deepest condolences, is a great loss but you must be strong and united more than before ... you will never be alone, you have your family and so many people that even if they did not know they knew what an extraordinary person he was ... force not dismayed she will look at you and help you to the upward ...

Anne Lene

January 24, 2016

My heart and condolences go out to Chris, Hannah,Tim and the rest of the family at this time. I'm so sad to hear such a wonderful woman passed away. Sends all my love and prayers ❤ Rest In Peace Karyn

Judy Carter

January 24, 2016

My thoughts and much love go out to Karyn's loved ones...

giliberti jo

January 24, 2016

condoléances

Christy Wilson

January 24, 2016

Goodbye, my friend. So many memories throughout the years. My heart will forever ache, but I rest in the knowledge that you are at peace in His arms.

January 24, 2016

Rest in peace, Karyn Colfer. Your son, Chris colfer have a good effect on me. He is so amazing and talented you know. Thanks for raising him. We, his huge fan will remember you and say 'Thank you, mam'. Pray for the bliss of dead.

Kelly Holthe

January 24, 2016

Although I knew you a short time, I felt as if it was a lifetime. You've left a mark on our hearts forever. Gosh we will miss you. Prayers for Tim, Christopher, Hannah and Will.

Janet Klainebrastin

January 24, 2016

We are close to Chris and his family for this loss so sudden, are pleased for them, and we hope that Karyn from there can continue to love them and protect them .... condolences ....

Hermande Sikoski

January 24, 2016

Madam, i didn't know you, but i'm sure you were amazing. God bless you.

Lisa Graemiger

January 24, 2016

Heartfelt love and prayers I am sending to the Colfer family at this very sad time, I'm so very sorry for your loss.

Mary Bender

January 24, 2016

I'm sorry for your loss. Stay strong Colfer Family.

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