Karen Iola (Johnson) Kinnison

Karen Iola Kinnison (née Johnson)

11/27/38 - 6/20/24

Karen was born in the farming community of Dayton, Washington to Lloyd Lester Johnson and Grace Anne Greatorex (later, James).

She is survived by one brother, Al Johnson (Nancy) and one sister, Irene (née Johnson), and a former sister-in-law, Kay Hickey (Jerrolee). She was preceded in death by her parents Lloyd and Grace, her stepfather Warren James, brother Jack Johnson and sister, Peggy (née Johnson).

To do her life justice I would have to write a book, so I guess I'll just have to do my best to convey to you the kind of person she was.

At every turn in her life, whether it be set back or opportunity, she demonstrated a strength, resilience, determination, and above all, love and compassion that exemplified who she truly was. Anyone who knew her, knew what a big, loving heart that she had.

Her life was filled with many challenges, not the least of which was the birth of her son. This is a challenge to which she rose and met wonderfully well.

One excellent example of how she approached her life occurred in high school, while in the marching band. Her chosen instrument was the big bass drum! It was, quite literally, bigger than she (5'2", eyes of blue. Maybe 100 pounds, soaking wet). Many of her classmates and Friends have told me about their amazement as they watched this tiny girl play this massive instrument, and play it well; with flourishes! She was never one to be daunted by anything life presented her and she accepted every challenge that she was given.

It also bears mention that she spent many years as a member of the Eagles Aerie number 2618, in Dayton. She was a constant volunteer and really enjoyed her time as an officer and as a volunteer. She truly loved helping others and always showed people those little kindnesses and thoughtfulness that tend to go unnoticed and ofttimes unappreciated. What a shining example she was to everyone around her. 

She told me often that the best compliment anyone could give her is to tell her that she's just like her mother. A woman she admired like no other. It was always her goal to emulate her mother, and I can honestly say that she accomplished that goal. I was able to tell her this a few times, most recently just a couple of months ago.

There's so much more I'd like to say here but, like I said, I'd have to write a book.

Instead, I will just say this; she is greatly loved and dearly missed.

          I LOVE YOU, MOM