Karen Esther Schmidt

Karen was born in Spokane Wa. December 5, 1943 to Glen & Pauline Valsvig. She was the second of three children. She attended Bemiss Elementary and graduated from Rogers High School in 1962. She was active in the Girls League, Pep Club, Plays/One Act Plays, Parent/Teacher/Student Association and Big Sisters. She was an avid skier, both snow and on water where she often showed off her water skills skiing slalom.

Karen is survived by her 6 children, Rick, Jessie, Jim, Greg, Brook, & Chris, 15 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren and 10 great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband of 48 years Gary, as well as her parents and Karen’s brothers Paul & Donnie.

Karen worked as an accountant for several years before her retirement in 2003 as the Head Accountant for Spokane Youth Sports Association. After her retirement, she and Gary spent some time traveling, camping with their camp group and spending time with family and friends. She really took pride in planning big family gatherings at their house and making both family and friends feel welcome. She had numerous hobbies which included gardening, sewing, cooking and baking (the holiday cookie boxes are missed by all) not to mention her love for crosswords and other word puzzle books.

We would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the entire care staff at Guardian Angel Homes and her Primary Care Provider for their support and exceptional care provided mom during her stay in the Cottage. We also wish to extend our gratitude to the kind care staff at The Schneidmiller Hospice House in Coeur d'Alene ID.

There will be a private graveside service for family members at 12 noon on Saturday, July 22 at Holy Cross Cemetery. At 1:30pm there will be a celebration of Karen's life held at Audubon Park 3405 N Milton, in northwest Spokane. A light buffet and refreshments will be provided.

Ball & Dodd Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. The family invites you to share a personal memory at www.ballanddodd.com