Karen Zadow

Karen Zadow, beloved daughter, cherished sister, sister-in-law, aunt, niece, cousin and friend, died in the warmth of her childhood home on Friday, April 1st, at age 64.  She was born to Daryl and Mary Zadow in Tacoma, Washington and attended Lowell Elementary, Mason Jr. High and Stadium High schools.

After graduating from Stadium, Karen set out to be a hairdresser graduating from cosmetology school and later from Gene Juarez academy.  She was a talented hairdresser for over 40 years and took pride in her clients looking, and feeling, beautiful.  Karen treasured her clients, and colleagues, many of which became wonderful friends.  If some of us are now looking a bit scruffy, it is because we have not found a stylist that matches her caliber.

Family was very important to Karen and she had an abundance of love for everyone in her family.  She had a special relationship with her father and adored nephews Nathan and Braden.  Although she didn't have the time or energy to share feelings with all her family and friends before passing, she wanted them to know they were in her heart, thoughts and prayers.

Karen was a beautiful, independent, fun-loving, generous, dedicated, at times indecisive, woman with a ginormous heart.  She had a special gift for making friends wherever she went.  Friendship with Karen could be new or span decades and many friends became part of her extended family, which was a blessing for all.

Christianity was the essence of Karen’s life.  She was blessed with a dear spiritual mentor and a bible study posse that offered a meaningful path to strengthen her faith.  They shared their devotions, and friendships, at weekly meetings and annual retreats at the Oregon Coast with good food, wine, coffee and shopping.

Traveling and eating great foods were two of Karen’s passions.  Many of us remember her beautiful smile, tan skin, and lively stories after vacations in Mexico.  As we know, she was drawn to Mexico by the beautiful ocean beaches, warm weather, friends and culture.

Karen and her cousins often joked with Uncle Tony about who was his favorite niece and, though he is too gracious to say, some of the cousins suspect that Karen is his favorite and she has taken that secret with her.

Karen was preceded in death by her father, Daryl.  She is survived by her dear mother, Mary, sisters Debbie and Cheri (husband Uli), brother Bill (wife Shelly), niece Lori, nephews Nathan (wife Melanie), Braden, and Alex (wife Karissa), the DeRosa family, cousins and “hand-picked” sisters. 

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, June 12th from 1 to 4pm at the Point Defiance Pagoda.  

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to AA MDS International Foundation (www.aamds.org).

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