Karen Vee Bell Barney

Karen Vee Bell Barney was born August 8, 1943, in Payson, Utah, to Klar H. Bell and Mary Leora Johnson. After a 10-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease, she departed this earth peacefully on March 24, 2026, surrounded by her loving family while under the care of Valley Manor and Senior Community Care of Colorado Pace program.

Karen will be remembered for her gentle spirit, generous heart, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. Her life was a beautiful tribute of kindness, connection, and the joy found in both simple moments and lifelong passions. Throughout her life she dedicated herself to homemaking and her family. She was proud to work at K-mart for over 20 years alongside her many friends and colleges until she retired to enjoy her passions and relationships. She will be deeply missed and forever felt in our hearts by all who knew and loved her. Karen shared a remarkable 65-year marriage with her beloved husband, Wayne Barney. Together, they built a life of adventure and unconditional love with their family and friends.

She is survived by her devoted husband Wayne, and their children Robyn Meeks, Shelly (Mike) Pilling, and James Barney. Her grandchildren are Kassidy (Will) Spencer, Derek (Elena) Meeks, Austin Meeks, Gabrielle (Dylan) Pilling, Shalyn (Zac) Bryner, Ryan Myers, Cazz (Carson) Davis, Andrew (Melissa) Barney, 14 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild, and 4 loving sisters. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, and one grandson, James Kyle Barney.

A celebration of life will be held on her birthday, August 8, 2026. The location and time will be determined later. We, as a family, are eternally grateful for the compassionate care she received from Valley Manor and Community Care of Colorado Pace program in Montrose, CO. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Volunteers of America.