Oma, it has been over 2 months since you left us and I miss you and think of you every day. I miss your smile, your voice, and our chats. I never realized how much time we spent together on the phone, in person, and through email, until you were no longer here. I have not written on this wall before now because my heart is too full of emotion to be eloquent. Eloquence still escapes me, but I felt the need to "talk" to you today. I am doing my best to take care of Opa. He misses you as much as you knew he would. I love you always and will see you again someday.

Karen your smiles and warm heart will be missed but remembered. You are such a dear heart. I can't say enough to do you justice. Your true character always was gentle and loving. You have your job cut out for you up in heaven, being a guardian Angel for so many people. See you sometime soon. Hugs. Wendy

While I don't remember the date, I do remember the day 12 years ago when I first met Oma. A smile, open arms followed by a hug and kiss on the cheek. "Another Grandson." Oma and Opa Wirth (to call them by any other name seemed wrong) accepted Tami Schell and I into their family like we were one of their own. Through the years of hunting for dove, feral hogs and whitetail deer with "Her Boys" Kevin, Mike and I; their visits to San Angelo and ours to their home in New Braunfels; followed recently by their visit to our home in Yellowstone National Park (something that would not have been possible without them) all memories are of happiness, laughs, hugs, kisses and smiles. The cards she made and sent us each holiday and birthday along with photos have had a permanent spot on our refrigerator. Being able to see them each day and explain to guests to our own home what each signified always brought up all of the happy stories and tales of our time spent with Oma and Opa.
 Oma was a woman who enjoyed being treated like a lady. Waiting for us to open the car door for her, doors to a restaurant or home, finger pointing lashings from across the room followed by a smile when a vulgar word escaped our lips in her presence. Always fussing over us to make sure we were comfortable and taken care of. An amazing card player who would sit quietly in reserve then with the flurry of a mad woman laying down suits to "go out" with a smile as we bowed our heads in yet another defeat. The stories she would tell us of her childhood, living in Wisconsin and of Family and Friends were always a highlight of the day and just proved how tough of a woman she really was. All memories I will never forget.
 Tami and I were able to surprise Oma recently by driving down from Wyoming and visiting her with Kevin and Kim Wirth. While she knew we were coming, the day was still a surprise. To be able to spend time again with such an amazing woman and to see her smile and arms out for a hug when we walked in the door is something that will stay with me for the rest of my life. To see her strength and reserve even with the known eventual outcome was inspiring and heartbreaking as she fussed over us to make sure things were in order. Being able to sit down at the dinner table and once again talk of stories was like old times.
 My last moments with Oma were when she called me into the bedroom as she rested. Walking into the room was met by a smile and upraised arms for a hug. Burying my head in her shoulder, I cried as she hugged me tightly for several minutes. Leaning her head against mine, stroking and kissing my head telling me everything was going to be all right. We talked about how happy she was that we were able to visit and of good times were able to experience together through the years. She spoke of how as a family we all had each other and would stay strong and be there for one another when she was gone. Even then she was only thinking of all of us and if we were going to be OK. A very emotional and tear filled moment for both of us. Not wanting to leave, it was time to go and I departed with one last kiss on her forehead, a hug and her kiss on my cheek.
 An amazing woman, Oma has had a huge impact on my life as she has had on all of us. Looking through the dozens of pictures and emails over the past few days has been hard, but I have to smile as with each one brings back a happy memory. Thank you Oma for being such an important part of our lives. We love you Oma and miss you dearly. Until we meet again.

 - Mike the "Patient Grandson"

Karl & family, so very sorry about the loss of Karen. She was such a special person. She was so happy and fun to be with. She was so kind and thoughtful, always thinking of everyone. We always enjoyed the visits when you came home to Wisconsin. So very sorry. Quite a shock to lose her. We will miss Karen. She kept the family together. With Deepest Sympathy! Karl & Marilyn Allen Janesville Wisconsin

OBITUARY

Karen M Bernstein Wirth

19 August, 1945 – 21 May, 2014

Zoeller Funeral Home

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