Karen Rae Barton

In Illinois, on October 10, 1942, Karen Rae was born to Robert and Naomi Hendrickson as her sister, Carol, awaited to welcome her home. Karen was raised with extended family of her grandparents, many uncles, aunts and cousins nearby and frequent gatherings.

Her family moved to Oakland, California, where she finished school, attended church and married. Karen was blessed with two daughters. From Oakland, she moved to Fremont where she worked for the United States Postal Service. She first worked in a distribution facility routing mail and packages and driving delivery vehicles, then was Postmistress in the office in Mission San Jose.

When her family moved to Chehalis, Washington, in 1977, she worked with her brother-in-law and sister for a while then, eventually, settled into her job with Washington State in DSHS. She worked there until her early retirement in 2002.

Her interest included trains, which she shared in her daughter's early years. She also enjoyed latch hook, and accomplished many projects: covered bridge, snowy barn, beach, lion, and a large Christmas tree which she displayed for many years as her tree.

Karen always enjoyed her daughters and was interested in the activities they participated in. Her heart beamed at the arrival of her grandson and granddaughter. Her heart was overjoyed whenever she spent time with them. Her grandchildren always made her heart beam and brought a smile to her face.

Karen went to be Jesus on January 6, 2024.

She is survived by her sister Carol; daughters Cheryl and Sharlene, with Sandra joining her family in 1988; grandson Ethan and granddaughter Allyson; nephews Rick and Ryan; nieces Rhonda and Richelle; and cousins, great nephews and great nieces. Karen had a heart she extended to friends, and many became family.

A viewing for Karen will be held Tuesday, January 16, 2024 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Sticklin Funeral Chapel, 1437 S Gold St, Centralia, Washington 98531. There will be a gathering with refreshments from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.