Karen Marie Carlson

Karen Carlson Obituary

KAREN MARIE (MANSEN) CARLSON Karen Marie (Mansen) Carlson, born in Tacoma, October 5, 1943, passed to life eternal with Jesus Christ on April 26, 2007. Karen spent most of her life as a resident of the Gig Harbor/Purdy area. She graduated from Peninsula High School in 1961, and from Pacific Lutheran University in 1965, where she sang in the Choir of the West. She taught in the Tacoma and Peninsula School Districts and directed church choirs in Tacoma at Gloria Dei Lutheran, First Presbyterian, Mission Woods Church (Milton), and in the Gig Harbor area at Chapel Hill Presbyterian and Grace Evangelical Presbyterian Churches. She was preceded in death by son David, father Raymond Arthur Mansen, Sr., and step-father Stan Blackwood. Survivors include husband of 40 years, Larry, daughter Ann Marie Carlson, mother Charl Blackwood, brothers Ray Mansen and Jack Blackwood, and sister Lynn Blackwood. Karen brought to hundreds of lives the joy of Christ through her servant attitude and her gift of music. She leaves behind a legacy which will be shared for decades to come through the worship ministries of the many people she inspired and trained. Karen is deeply loved and will be immensely missed. A memorial celebration will be held at 3 pm, Sunday, May 6, 2007 at Miracle Ranch, 15999 Sidney Rd. SW, Port Orchard. All those who have sung with or under Karen are encouraged to sing in the memorial choir, rehearsing at 2:15 pm. Arrangements by Haven of Rest, Gig Harbor. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be designated to Grace Church.

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Published by News Tribune (Tacoma) on May 1, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Karen Carlson

9 Entries

Joanna Carlson

May 11, 2007

I was fortunate to have been a close friend of Karen's through our PLU years. Upon graduation we lived together in her parent's house while her mother earned her Master's Degree at WSU. That first year of teaching was an exciting time for both of us. We were each bridesmaids in the other's wedding. Ironically, both of us married "Carlsons" and our daughters share the same name. (I gave my Anne a different middle name, however. We decided that if they both attended PLU at the same time it would be too confusing!) Our children were the same ages, and we often "swapped" kids when we had doctor's appointments or errands.
I had such admiration for both Karen and Larry through David's short life. What wonderful parents they have been. When we left Tacoma, our visits became fewer, but we have always kept in contact.
Karen was a lovely and incredibly talented Christian woman. Those of us whose lives she touched will remember that wonderful smile, her great sense of humor, her caring and compassion, and her strong faith.
She will always be in our hearts.

Jan Fosen

May 10, 2007

I sang in the P.L.U. choir with Karen and went on the choir tour to Norway in the summer of 1963. I always looked up to Karen as a caring friend and Christian role model. Karen's smile and twinkling eyes always radiated the love of Jesus! Blessed be her memory.

Cyndy Prichard

May 10, 2007

Karen was brought into my life by her son, David, who I loved dearly.
It was an instant connection with Karen. I was amazed by her positive energy and strength, as a mother, to do what she knew was right for David. She was then kind enough to share her love with my girls when they were just babies. What a powerful gift to be given!

Most of all, Karen reconnected me with my faith. She helped wipe away years of confusion and showed me the bliss of being a Christian. I am eternally grateful.
Her musical talent was a gift from Heaven. She was amazing! Music continues to be my worship. She showed me the sermon in each song we sang. My time with Karen in the choir at Chapel Hill, will always be my best of times.
Since that period came to an end, I have been on a different journey with my faith. Without her teachings with the music, I would be at a loss.
My agony is that I didn't stay connected with Karen. I began to feel that I disapponted her by not going to Church, so I think I avoided contact. I am so sorry that I wasn't there for her. I didn't know that I was missing the opportunity to see her, and talk with her, and support her. Now I am left with such sorrow of time lost. I know she forgives me, but I wish so much that I could see her at least one more time. I know I will, but I wish it was now.

I will always love you Karen. My momories are so amazingly joyful and funny, although right now they make me ache! I thank you for all the gifts you brought to my soul. My faith is stronger because of you. I thank you also for the gift of your family. David so touched my heart and what an amazing mother you were to him! Annie is all joy, fun, and laughter! She is a beautiful witness for you and for steadfast faith, WOW! And then you gave me Larry. I so appreciated his knowledge, humility, and humor!

You changed my life. Thank God I will never be the same.
Love always,
Cyndy

Meghan Hawkins

May 6, 2007

I first met Karen when I began attending Grace Church. She always had a warm smile for everyone and made me and many others feel welcome. Singing in the Grace chior under her direction was a great privilege. All were welcome, regardless of their level of musical talent. As Karen continually reminded us, we were not performing, but rather worshiping and giving glory to God. One of the most exciting pieces we sang was Handel's Messiah. I think of Karen now, whenever I listen to it.

"For the Lord God omnipotent reigneth!"

Kathy Routley-Schreiner

May 3, 2007

Karen was a classmate and friend. She was always kind to everyone and had a big smile for all. What fun we had last fall at our class reunion.I can picture her in heaven singing with the angels. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her.God's blessing to her loved ones.

Ian McKnight

May 2, 2007

I have known Karen since I was three. She was the first person to ever teach me anything about music, and I will miss her greatly. I was often under her direction being in the church choir at Grace Presbyterian and will never forget the great times that we had singing the "Hallelujah Chorus" for the first time, and getting to know her as a friend.

Carol Ellison Music

May 2, 2007

Karen was a high school classmate of mine and I very saddened to hear of her death this past week. She brought joy, music and song to our class and to all those that knew her. I send God's Blessings to all her family and friends. She is at peace.

Ron Reierson

May 1, 2007

I knew Karen and her family during my high school years. I'll always remember her as a true Child of God, happy and smiling, and with the true humility of God's Spirit. Blessings to her family during this tragic time.

Myra Gulley

May 1, 2007

I remember Karen's bright twinkling eyes, her outgoing personality and her beautiful voice which she so freely shared with others. Her family and friends and her love for God was such a critical part of who she was. God Bless all who loved her.

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