Karen A. Barrow

Obituaries

While experiencing a fabulous fun-filled week spent enjoying music and visiting family, Karen A. Barrow became unexpectedly ill and died shortly thereafter Aug. 8 in Spokane, Washington. Karen was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend who will be tremendously missed by all. She will always be remembered for her warm smile, gentle laugh, and the love she radiated to all those around her.

Born April 28, 1941, in Lewiston, Idaho to Arthur and Evelyn (Ely) Weberling, Karen spent the first eight years of her life in Rathdrum, Idaho. Barrow spent the rest of her childhood in Spokane and graduated from North Central High School in 1959.

Moving frequently in her younger adult life, she lived in California, Arizona and Washington, while holding many different jobs and making friends everywhere she went. Along the way she was blessed with children Michael, Adina and Glenn, whom she loved dearly.

Karen married Colonel Joseph M. Barrow Nov. 30, 1990, to whom she remained married for over 28 years until her death. Their marriage was filled with world travel, music, arts appreciation and many, many wonderful friends. They lived in Longbranch for the last 25 years of their married life, enjoying boating and the serenity of rural life. The views of South Puget Sound were among her favorites and strongly influenced where they built their home.

Karen enjoyed nothing more than sharing memories and the accomplishments of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren with friends and family.

She was preceded in death by her parents and son Glenn. She is survived by her husband Joseph Barrow; brother Arlen Weberling (JoAnn); son Michael Gardiner (Lynne); daughter Adina F. Morse (James D. Montgomery); stepsons Joe Barrow and Shawn Barrow (Marnie); grandchildren Jeanette Lundgren (Justin), Amanda Gardiner, Johstono Alden Weberling Morse, Channing Eleanor Weberling Morse, and seven great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at Discovery Baptist Church, 4902 Gustafson Drive NW in Gig Harbor Sept. 1 at 11 a.m. with a fellowship gathering to follow to share memories of Karen. Attendees are encouraged to dress casually.

The family would like to thank the staff at Providence Holy Family Hospital in Spokane, especially ICU nurses Margie and Kelly, for the outstanding care and support they provided.