Karen Brown

Karen Brown, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on September 12, 2026, at the age of 70. Born on February 24, 1956, in Wenatchee, Washington, Karen was the cherished daughter of the late Herman Brown and Mildred White. She was predeceased by her father in 1993 and her mother in 2014, along with various aunts and uncles who were dear to her heart. Karen's journey in life was one of love, service, and joy. A proud graduate of Wenatchee High School in 1974, she furthered her education with an associate degree from Wenatchee Valley College. Her professional life was marked by dedication and a commitment to making a difference. Karen worked as a lab assistant at Tree Fruit Research and was involved in fish tagging on the lower Columbia River for Fish and Wildlife. She volunteered her time managing a wildlife database for the Wenatchee National Forest, showcasing her passion for nature and conservation. Her career extended beyond these roles, as she served as an EMT and firefighter in District 10, Royal City. Her compassionate nature shone through her work as a volunteer chaplain's assistant at the NCW Jail Chaplaincy and as an incident medical specialist for the US Forest Service. Karen's life was a testament to her commitment to helping others, leaving a lasting impact on those she served. Karen's personal life was a tapestry of love and family. She met the love of her life, Steven Brown, at Central Washington University. Their love story, which began in those vibrant college years, blossomed into a beautiful marriage on February 20, 1981, in Wenatchee, Washington. Together, they built a life enriched with love, laughter, and cherished memories, celebrating 45 years of marriage. Their bond was a testament to a strong partnership that withstood life's challenges and celebrated its joys. Karen and Steven were blessed with two wonderful children, Michael and Amanda, both residing in Wenatchee, Washington. As a devoted grandmother, Karen found immense joy in her three grandchildren, Stacy, Sari, and Isaac. Her family was her pride and joy, and she devoted her life to creating a nurturing and loving environment for them. Her love extended beyond immediate family, as she cherished her relationship with her older brother, cousin Earline, and her children and grandchildren. Her heart was large enough to encompass various foster siblings and their families, all of whom she held dear. Karen's zest for life was evident in her hobbies and interests. She loved shopping, traveling, and spending time with her grandchildren, who were a constant source of happiness. A high school trip to Europe with a church choral group left a lasting impression on her, fueling her passion for travel and adventure. In remembering Karen, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with love, kindness, and service to others. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who knew her. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice in her memory.