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BORN
1942
DIED
2021
Karen May Obituary
Karen Louise May, née Engebretsen, 79, passed away on Monday, October 25th in Seattle, WA, succumbing after a month-long battle to a bacterial infection. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joel and Shirley Engebretsen, and her brothers Joel and James. Karen was born while her father was at sea in the navy, thus beginning a life of adventures. Her warm heart and protective spirit shone through while taking care of her siblings and later her own family. In college, she met her husband Larry and they traveled to Brazil in the Peace Corps and later to Norway on a shoestring budget, eventually towing along two children and loving every minute. Later, they spent a decade in Granite Falls, WA, where they adopted a daughter (Maria) and were active in the community. Then they took the whole family to Brazil for a few years, where they adopted a son (Marcelo) and rekindled old friendships. Eventually retiring in Tacoma, Karen's life revolved around her grandchild, traveling and a rich social life. She leaves behind her sons Tobias and Marcelo, daughters Gyda and Maria, a granddaughter Kalina, as well as brothers Eugene (Ilene) and Paul; sisters Suzanne (Ken), Laura and Edie; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. A funeral service will be held December 4th at 2 p.m. at the Sts. Peter and Paul church in Tacoma. Rest in Peace.
May 26, 1942 - October 25, 2021To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Karen May
5 Entries
Gyda May
December 14, 2021
Mom, you made my life rich with love and full of experiences. I will keep your spirit alive in my heart.
Tom Eller
November 29, 2021
The Tyee Triumph Club thanks you for single handedly saving the club. All of us will miss you.
Glenn Blumhorst
November 22, 2021
On behalf of the Peace Corps community, our most sincere condolences to Karen's family and friends for your tragic loss. I am grateful for Karen's service to her country as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Brazil, and know that she positively impacted many people in her lifetime of service to others.
Glenn Blumhorst
President & CEO
National Peace Corps Association
www.rpcv.org
Laura Engebretsen
November 14, 2021
My sister Karen will always be present in my heart and mind.
Suzanne
November 14, 2021
Tropicana roses to you, my big sister. You led the way in so many things in my life.
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