Karen Dorothy King

In Loving Memory of Karen D. King

Karen D. King, 73, passed away peacefully on November 19th at her home in Tomball, Texas. She was born on May 27, 1952, in Chicago, Illinois and lived a life defined by love, kindness, and grace. She graduated from West Leyden High School in 1970 and the University of Northern Iowa in 1974, earning a degree in Social Work - a testament to her deep compassion for others.

Karen married her college sweetheart, Monte C. King, and together they shared 50 wonderful years of marriage. Her career began at Texas Commerce Bank and continued at Catholic Charities, where she guided young mothers with empathy. Yet, Karen found her greatest calling as a mother, pouring her heart into caring for her family. Her devotion to her husband, children, and grandchildren was unwavering. She was always present, cheering them on, ensuring their safety, and going the extra mile to support them. Karen's greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren-teaching them to bake, decorating for holidays, shopping trips to Target, and caring for them when they were ill.

Karen's compassion extended beyond her family. For over 15 years, she led the Tomball Emergency Assistance Ministries (TEAM) Annual Christmas Toy Drive, believing every child deserved a joyful Christmas. Under her leadership, the program provided gifts to about 100 families each year, ensuring local children woke up to presents and hope. Karen poured her soul into this effort, personally selecting gifts and inspiring friends, neighbors, and family to volunteer. The Toy Drive became a cherished tradition, uniting the community and celebrating faith by spreading love and joy. Her dedication brought happiness to families across Tomball and filled her own family with pride, knowing her efforts created magical Christmas mornings for so many.

Karen and Monte shared a lifelong passion for antiques, starting their collection in college, and their hobby later became a business, Gone With the Wind Antiques, specializing in Victorian furniture and accessories. Karen's friendly personality and expertise in Fostoria Heirloom glassware, Victorian samplers, and ornate frames connected her with fellow collectors and friends. Twice a year, she and Monte brought their treasures to the Round Top Antique Show, forging friendships that lasted a lifetime.

Those who knew Karen quickly discovered her love for her grandchildren and her talent for transforming Christmas into something magical. Each November, she and her grandchildren turned her home into "Reindeer Lodge," a winter wonderland filled with silver ribbons, sentimental ornaments, Annalee mice, and nutcrackers. Hallmark movies played year-round, and her surprise Christmas activity list-matching elf socks, cookie baking, crafts, luminaries, and Christmas Bingo-brought joy to all. Her laughter filled the room, and her generosity embodied the true spirit of the season. These traditions, rooted in her Christian faith, created cherished memories that will live on for generations.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Irene and Howard Bertram; Monte's parents, Marie and Paul King; and her brother-in-law, Bruce Switala.

Her legacy of kindness and love lives on through those who cherished her most. Karen is survived by her devoted husband, Monte C. King; her daughter Tiffany Goodwin and son-in-law Brian; her daughter Melissa Paluska and son-in-law Matt; and her beloved grandchildren Nathan Goodwin, Russell Paluska, and Elizabeth Paluska. She was the best Grammie/Mimi-always present, loving, and giving. Karen is also survived by her sister, Judy Switala; her brother, David (Mary) Bertram; and many other dear relatives and caring friends.

The visitation will be on Sunday, November 23rd between 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm and a funeral service will be held on Monday, November 24th at 2:00 pm, both at Klein Funeral Home, 16131 Champion Forest Drive, Spring, TX 77379. Concluding the chapel service, Karen will be laid to rest at Klein Memorial Park in a private ceremony for the family.

Those wishing to honor Karen's memory may consider a donation to Tomball Emergency Assistance Ministries (TEAM), especially for the Christmas Toy Drive, or to MD Anderson Cancer Center.

We will be loving you, always!