Karen Sue Lowe Howard-Winters

How does one possibly condense the wild life lived by Karen into one obituary? In her seven decades of life, Karen had countless adventures that would captivate anyone willing to listen. She was a firecracker, which made her birthday of July 4th perfect for her. She was always rooting for the underdog, like her beloved Chicago Cubs. She sought thrills like those that came with every new Jurassic Park film, always having been so intrigued by the mysterious creatures of the past. Many would describe her as a force to be reckoned with, which, if you've ever found yourself in her presence, you would very likely agree.

Born and raised in the Chicagoland area, Karen sought a life outside of the Midwest and had a taste of the nomadic experience in her youth. As a young woman, she established herself in places like California and Arizona, before finally settling in Odessa, Texas, where she has remained for the past 45 years.

Karen was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and a pillar of her community. Karen was heavily involved in local and state-wide politics representing the Democratic party while advocating passionately for the underdogs of her community. Many of these accomplishments would have been major feats in a large city, but her passion for serving led her to do monumental things with limited resources.

"Knock on the door to my soul and you will find an ageless hippie with a rock and roll heart and a never-ending hope for peace." - Unknown

A flower child at heart, Karen valued peace, love, happiness, and equality, as well as a love of animals, nature, and our planet. Her free-spirited lifestyle began in the 1960's as she followed the fast-growing bohemian movement, all about protesting against unjust violence and the desire to live in a peaceful world. Karen immersed herself into that subculture, which was all about spreading happiness everywhere they went. They accepted diversity and felt comfortable expressing their true selves, which is something that she always encouraged others to do.

Freedom of speech, freedom of expression, freedom of love, freedom to be yourself. Freedom was the key value that Karen held dear. It spoke to her individuality that she also dabbled in liberal activism and a bit of anarchy so long as it was while advocating for others. There were also many other traditional values from the radical 1960's that Karen carried with her throughout her life. Protecting nature, taking care of each other, and loving each community member unconditionally was one of the big ways that she expressed her love for others and the world.

Karen swelled with pride whenever anyone shared their elation and adoration regarding her legendary cooking. She didn't hesitate to share her love of food with anyone and everyone. Whether it was an elaborate meal like beef stroganoff, a simple beef sandwich, or an array of perfectly baked goods, Karen always looked forward to cooking for the ones she loved.

In her last days, she showed no shortage of delight knowing that she was surrounded by her loved ones. Though she would eventually succumb to her injuries, her joy for life and indomitable spirit kept her pushing through the pain as she enjoyed their company.

Karen is survived by her husband, Lee Winters, her daughter, Rhonda (Kevin) Soos, her granddaughter, Krista Soos, and a wonderful, extended family that she gained through her husband - all of whom she cared for greatly.

"We are not given a good life or a bad life. We are given a life. It's up to us to make it good or bad." - Unknown

A visitation for Karen Sue Lowe will be held Sunday, June 4, 2023 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors, 4635 Oakwood Drive, Odessa, Texas 79761. A chapel service will occur Monday, June 5, 2023 at 1:00 PM, 4635 Oakwood Drive, Odessa, Texas 79761. A burial will occur Monday, June 5, 2023 at Ector County Cemetery, 300 S Dixie Blvd, Odessa, Texas 79761.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.odessafuneralhome.com for the Howard-Winters family.