Karen Bachan

1930 - 2023

Karen Bachan, affectionately called "Frelly" by her loved ones, died peacefully in her home on the morning of April 11, 2023.

Karen was born in Watsonville, CA on September 29, 1930, to Earl and Virginia, "Ginny" Hansen. She attended local schools, including Watsonville High School and earned her associate degree at Hartnell College in Salinas, CA.

Karen and her husband-to-be, Bill, met shortly after World War II soon after he returned home from active duty. They married in 1950, set up their home and began raising their four children in their hometown. They were married for 66 years until Bill's death in 2016.

Karen was an ardent gardener, an accomplished home cook, a passionate tennis player and fan of tennis. She was a founding member of the Tennis Club of Rio Del Mar where she played for many years and enjoyed spending time with beloved friends, especially "The Monday Ladies."
For many years Karen was a member of and provided community service through the Omega Nu Sorority of Watsonville. She served as a volunteer fundraiser for Hospice of Santa Cruz as a member of their "Friends" committee. 

Along with the joy of sharing life with her family and friends Karen greatly enjoyed her four-legged family members including Labrador retrievers, yorkies, a papillon and her much loved kitty cats.

She and Bill shared a deep love of travel. They explored the USA extensively, including annual trips to Lake Tahoe and Hawaii with family and friends. Highlights of their travels include trips to Europe, Canada, Mexico, South America and various South Sea Islands.

Karen was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, grandmother and great grandmother. Her family meant everything to her. She is survived by her children, Paul (Betty), Ginny (Scott), David (Valerie), and Kris (Dave). She also leaves her cherished eight grandchildren, Tina (Matt), Ryan (Andrea), Jaime (Patrick), Matt (Heather), Blane (Kylie), Joel, Brad (Nicole) and Jarred. Karen delighted in her twelve great-grandchildren, Avary, Kylie, Gabby, Tiernan, Taylor, Jack, Cruz, Charlie, Brooklyn, Weston, Maya and Olivia. She leaves several beloved nieces and nephews.

Karen was predeceased by her parents, her brother Bill, her husband Bill and by many of her dear friends and extended family members. We like to believe they have reunited in a glorious homecoming when she passed from our midst.

Karen truly loved her amazing caregivers who made it possible for her to continue living comfortably in her home until her passing. The family wishes to express our deep gratitude to Lupe, Maribel, Roscio, LizBeth and Celina for their devotion and loving care of our dear Frelly.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a donation to your favorite charity or to Hospice of Santa Cruz whose nurses, aids, social workers and music therapists eased Frelly's passing and provided incredible support to our family.

A private burial and celebration of her life is planned for Karen and her close family. Mehl's Colonial Chapel has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.