Stephen Edward Karr

Stephen E. Karr, 80, of Lacey, WA, passed away peacefully at his home on September 25, 2025. Steve was born on December 29, 1944, in Seattle, WA, to Clinton P. and Anne B. Karr. He grew up in Olympia, where he graduated from Olympia High School, and later went on to earn his degree from Western Washington State College in Bellingham. On December 19, 1970, Steve married the love of his life, Cheryl Jean Stewart of Tumwater. Together they shared 54 wonderful years of marriage, building a life filled with love, family, and community. Before beginning his career in education, Steve worked as a fire suppression foreman for the Department of Natural Resources for seven summers in the Grays Harbor area. He also spent time as the supervisor of the Senate bill room at the Washington State Legislature-where he first met Cheryl. Teaching was Steve's lifelong calling. He spent 16 years teaching social studies at Miller Junior High School in Aberdeen, followed by 18 years teaching fourth and fifth grade at Stevens Elementary School. Alongside his regular teaching career, he also taught traffic safety education at Aberdeen High School for 30 years. Steve retired in 2004 after a long and meaningful career, remembered fondly by generations of students. Beyond the classroom, Steve found great joy in simple and meaningful pursuits. He loved spending time with his family, fishing, working on projects around the home, reading, and volunteering at the Spar Shop with the Grays Harbor Historical Seaport. Steve is survived by his devoted wife, Cheryl, of Lacey; his children Cory (Misty) Karr of Walla Walla and Jayme (Sean) McCarty of Tumwater; and four beloved grandchildren Shae' Danford, Levi Karr, Paige Morrisette, Masyn Karr. At Steve's request, no formal service will be held. His family will remember him as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and teacher whose life touched many. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Stephen, please visit our floral store.