Karen Marie Cooley

Karen Marie Cooley, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026, surrounded by the warmth of her family, cherished friends, and the soothing melodies of her favorite music. Born on August 8, 1949, in the charming town of Commerce, Texas, Karen was a beacon of love and compassion throughout her life. The daughter of Ralph and Clarice Cooley, Karen was deeply rooted in the values of kindness and generosity, which she carried into every aspect of her life. She graduated from Simi Valley High School in 1967 and pursued higher education with great passion, earning her Bachelor’s Degree from Idaho State University and later, a Master’s Degree from The University of Alabama. Her education laid the foundation for a remarkable career dedicated to public health and community service. Karen was a pioneer in the field of Public Health. Her professional journey was marked by leadership roles at Clinica Sierra Vista and as the Executive Director of both Bakersfield Community Health Center and the YWCA. Her career culminated in her service as the Executive Director of The Kern Child Abuse Prevention Council/Haven Counseling Center. Her work touched countless lives, and her legacy in public health will be long remembered. In 1996, Karen married the love of her life, George Laven. Together, they shared 15 wonderful years, filled with laughter and love, until George's passing in 2011. Their time together was marked by deep companionship and shared adventures. Karen’s family was the cornerstone of her life. She is survived by her devoted son, Michael Prince, and his wife Jennifer, her loving stepdaughter, Anna Laven, and her husband Andrew, and stepson Wim Laven. Her siblings Sandra Longman and her husband Phillip, Ralph Cooley and his wife Susan, and Tina Schrider and her husband Philip, also mourn her passing. Karen was the proud grandmother of Jack, Hope, and Hunter, who were the light of her life. She also leaves behind a host of cherished nieces and nephews. Karen was preceded in death by her parents, her husband George, her step-son Tom Laven, and her sister Lisa Pluchino. Despite the loss she endured, Karen remained a pillar of strength and joy to those around her. Her unmistakable and infectious laugh was a hallmark of her personality, encapsulating her spirit of warmth and humor. Known for her compassion, she loved her family fiercely and shared her kindness with all who knew her. In her leisure time, Karen delighted in the simple joys of life. She loved spending time with her family, playing bridge, and attending weekly shows at the Gaslight Melodrama. Her presence brought joy to every gathering, and her memory will continue to inspire those who loved her. A service to honor and celebrate Karen's extraordinary life will be held on August 22, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the First Congregational Church of Bakersfield, located at 5 Real Road, Bakersfield, CA 93309. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of their choice, in keeping with Karen's generous spirit and commitment to helping others. Karen Marie Cooley’s life was a testament to love, laughter, and the enduring strength of family bonds. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know her.