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Warner Karshner Obituary
Warner William Karshner died suddenly on Friday July 18, 2008, in Gig Harbor, WA. He was born on August 12, 1946, to Don and Gayle (Buchanan) Karshner in Palo Alto, CA. Warner was raised in Arcata, CA, where he began his educational career at College Elementary School. He graduated from Arcata High School, where he was named the outstanding male graduate for his accomplishments in theater, music, politics and academic achievement. After graduating from the University of Oregon in 1968 Warner joined the Peace Corps, serving in Malaysia for six years. He earned his PhD in Counseling from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Warner went on to begin his professional career in Puyallup, WA, at Good Samaritan Hospital.
It was in the Proctor neighborhood of North Tacoma where he welcomed his family with the births of his two sons. In 1990 he and his family moved to Gig Harbor where he continued his career as a licensed psychologist.
Warner was very proud of his work within the communities of Gig Harbor, Tacoma and Puyallup. He found great satisfaction in collaborating with the Puyallup School District to ensure that his great uncle and aunt’s mission continue through the Paul H. Karshner Museum. Warner was honored to promote strong educational programs within the Peninsula School District and was honored in 2000 and 2001 by the Gig Harbor Chamber of Commerce for his Community Service. He also received the U.S. President’s Volunteer Service Award for community service in 2007.
Warner was nourished by his love of family, friends, colleagues and the out-of-doors. He was tremendously proud to see both of his sons graduate from college and found true joy in his annual family vacations.
Warner leaves behind his wife of 29 years, Diane Nason; sons, Eric Karshner, Park City, UT, and Brett Karshner, Seattle, WA; his mother, Gayle Karshner, Arcata, CA; his brother, Gary Karshner, San Antonio, TX; and very special nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and friends.
A celebration of Warner’s life will be held Sunday, July 27th at 1pm at the Tacoma Yacht Club. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Warner Karshner Memorial Scholarship, Peninsula School District, in care of The Family Center for Behavioral Health, 4700 Pt. Fosdick Dr. NW, Suite 302, Gig Harbor, WA 98335. Please leave online condolences at www.GaffneyCares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home 253-572-6003.
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Memories and Condolences
for Warner Karshner
Keith and Suzanne Hillkirk
February 16, 2021
My wife and I served in the Peace Corps with Warner in Malaysia. We did not know of his death until just recently. He was a friend, and we are delighted to learn of his success with his career and his family. We send best wishes to his family and loved ones.
Meghan
August 28, 2008
I was extremely saddened to hear about the passing of Dr. Karshner. He helped me through some extremely rough times in the past few years. His office was my safe haven when I didn't know where else to go. I can only begin to imagine the pain of his family, but please know in this hard time that Dr. Karshner has brought hope to so many people and without him I would not be sitting here today. Thank you.
Bruce & Marilee Hadley Taylor
August 25, 2008
Gayle, Gary, Diane and families,
I have never believed that credo that God never gives one more than you can carry! Surely Warnie's superb energies were needed somewhere in our universe imminently. Your family has given much to that realm. If only the Balm in Gilead could heal your sadness! We send our love to keep you all warm. Look forward! You are all in our prayers. Heartfelt sympathy to you all. I hope Craig was there to welcome Warnie in his crossing. Celebrate all the best memories!
Lois Carlson Hadley
August 11, 2008
Dear Gayle, Gary and Warner's Family,
I'm so sorry to read of your loss. My sympathy to all of you. It's been a long time since CES.
John Peterson
August 9, 2008
"Warnie"' & I had a lot of good times growing up in the 60's and those times & our friendship will never be forgotton.
AUHS '64
MaryJo (Koen) Stepp
August 7, 2008
To Warnie's family;
I was shocked and saddened to read of Warnie's sudden death. The earth is poorer for his loss; yet we are richer in our hearts for having known him. Though I have not seen him in years my memories of CES and AHS are replete with his ever present smile and kindness and utter genuineness. He was and is a bright star.
Judiann and Bob O'Connell
August 4, 2008
Warnie will always be remember by me as a fun person. Our long walks to CES together with Albert and Gayle Frakes and Gary helped to make the time go faster. My heart goes out to Gayle, Gary, and Warnies wife and children at this difficult time.
Mary (nee) Parke
August 4, 2008
Dear Gayle and Gary,
Our hearts go out to you both for your loss; may you be comforted...
In the fields of Heaven we hope Warnie is dancing: the end of a life well lived and a new beginning in joy.
Barbara, Greg, Mary, Jenny & Lissy
Jim Glover
August 2, 2008
Gayle and Gary: Like so many others have noted, I am stunned in disbelief that we have lost Warnie. We were involved in so many common endeavors in our high school years that I often forgot he was younger. Not long ago when he was here to help Gayle during her loss, Warnie and I had a chance to catch up on many things. I can only say that I have always admired his accomplishments and will truly miss him.
Arnold Sharpe
August 2, 2008
Gayle and Gary, Just moments ago I learned of Warnie's passing. I am stunned and saddened. I wish I could sit and hold your hands Gayle.... saying I am sorry seems so inadaquate. Love Arnold
Dede (Boemker) DeLodder
August 1, 2008
To the Karshner family,
I was shocked and saddened to hear of Warnie's unexpected death. So many of my high school escapades included him. Although it's been years since I've seen him, time cannot end true friendships or the precious memories they create.
Warnie possessed the gifts of communication and compassion at an early age. After I read his obituary, I see that so many people and places continued to benefit from his strengths.
He will be missed,
Laura (Goodrich) Lloyd
August 1, 2008
Gayle, I was checking mom's guest book and saw the notice about your son. I am so sorry. I did not know him,but mom always spoke so fondly of you and your family... he must have been very special.
My heart is with you Gayle.
Laura
Ron Siemens
July 31, 2008
To Warner's family and especially his mother Gayle - We are shocked and saddened to hear of Warner's passing. Our hearts and prayers go out to all of you. Sincerely, Ron & Karin Siemens
Robert Titlow
July 31, 2008
Gayle and Gary - I am still reeling from the news of Warnie's death. You will be hearing from me in much more detail. Bob (Titlow)
Carole (Jarvela) Patton
July 31, 2008
Dear Gayle & Gary,
This is such shocking news. I've only seen Warnie once or twice in the past 44 years, but can hardly recall many memories of my childhood adventures in the 17th & Union Street neighborhood without Warnie being in them. He was always with Harry & I playing hide and seek games in the nearby redwoods, climbing our cherry tree, building forts anyplace that beckoned, and rafting on the muddy old mill pond behind the college - all the while being trailed by Smudge, Penny, Dodger and Fuzzy. Our adventures even included swiping an occasional cigarette from an unsuspecting family member and "puffing" on it surreptitiously - how sly we were!
I will always remember Warnie as a gifted friend. Throughout our years together at CES and AHS, he was the kind, intelligent and funny one. This special man will be missed by all those touched by him. You and all of Warnie's family are in my prayers.
Virginia Rumble
July 31, 2008
You have my heartfelt and deep sympathy.
Dennis Bloxham
July 31, 2008
Knowing Warnie since our Elementary School (CES) days, I am saddened by his passing.
Kathleen McCarthy
July 27, 2008
Dear Diane, Eric & Brett,
At a time when words seem so inadequate we wish to express how very sorry we are to hear of Warner's
passing. We hope it brings a small measure of comfort to know your N.Y. relatives remember his warm,
friendly nature & how much deep appreciation your WA community has for him. How wonderful to leave such a memorable,meaningful footprint on many lives. Our prayers continue to be w/ you all~ Kathy,Ray & Kelsey McCarthy & Cathy & Tom Brandt
Connie Mizuha
July 26, 2008
Dearest Diane and boys, Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. We loved Warner and thought of him so highly. He truly was a great man that we loved and admired more than you know. Love,Byron and Connie
Kathy
July 25, 2008
To the family of Dr. Karshner,
I am so sorry for your loss. He was such a kind and gentle man and helped me (as his patient), on several occasions,put order to the chaos and help me find peace with myself and my life. Such a loss to all who knew him.
Susan Cornwall
July 25, 2008
I was very saddened to hear of Dr. Karshner's passing. I saw him briefly when he still practiced in Puyallup and thought him was a very caring and compassionate man. Plus, he always made me laugh. I am so sorry for your family's loss, he will be missed.
Rob Rushton
July 25, 2008
I am a better man because of Warner. He helped me through a difficult time in my life and continued to give me inspiration as I came in and laughed and cried with him. I dedicate The US Senior Open to him this next week. Long live Warner!
Gail A. Williams
July 25, 2008
Diane, Gayle and "the boys:"
No words are adequte to express my shock and sorrow on hearing of "Warnie's" death. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. I am remembering fondly the rather eventful Thanksgiving-season dinner when we set the centerpiece on fire, and the turkey didn't get quite cooked. I hope the memory will bring smiles to your faces now.
In love,
Gail A. Williams
CES '59; AHS '60
July 25, 2008
I knew Warner (or Dr. Karshner) for a very short time, but what an incredibly valuable time it was. He felt like more of a friend than a doctor. His unconditional love for his family, friends, and patients was always apparent, and I am a much better person for having known him. I am so sorry for your loss.
Robin Jenkinson
July 25, 2008
I am so very sorry about your loss.
Scott and Debbie Purdie
July 25, 2008
This was a VERY GOOD MAN! His care and keeping made us better people.
In large part we owe our marriage to him. He led us through our darkest hour. We know many many others that he helped guide back to a fulfilling life.
We loved the twinkle in his eye and the sweet smile he always carried.
To his sons, he has left you an incredible legacy. Honor his example.
To his wife, you did good!
You and your good family will have the opportunity to be with him again. May God's tender mercies and comfort be with you all till you meet again.
G. Chris Nason
July 25, 2008
Thoughts and prayers are with you.
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