Karen Kay Koster

In the early afternoon hours of March 31, 2009, Karen Kay Koster passed away at her home following a 13-year battle with cancer. She was 56 years old.Those who will forever cherish her memory include her husband, Philip Maseberg of Longmont; brother, Gerald Floyd Koster, DVM, and his wife, Laurie, of Highlands Ranch; a special aunt, Lois Claspill and her husband, George, of San Diego, California; as well as a host of extended family and friends. Her parents preceded her in death.Karen was born June 17, 1952 in Denver, Colorado, to Clayton Carlyle Koster and Geraldine M. (Curry) Koster. She graduated in 1970 from Lakewood High School and then from Colorado Women's College in 1974. She later earned Masters degrees in Spanish and accounting from the University of Denver and the University of Colorado, respectively.Her wide-ranging interests and insatiable curiosity about the world led Karen to travel around the United States and on language and cultural immersion semesters in Spain. She was a longtime lifeguard, and also participated in synchronized swimming. She loved all types of animals including her cats, dogs and horses.On June 17, 1999, she married Phil Maseberg at their home in Longmont. The couple enjoyed riding and boarding horses with their business, Jasma Acres. They also volunteered their time at various school events including dances and chariot races. She loved to entertain at her home, was a gracious hostess and a wonderful cook.Karen taught Spanish, math and accounting for several years at Regis Jesuit High School in Aurora, and for the past 10 years had instructed math courses at Holy Family High School in Broomfield. Her career was marked by her love of teaching and dedication to her students. She received several awards including the Regis Outstanding Service Award in 2000, the 2006 Teacher of the Year Award in the Broomfield area, and recognition of her 25 years of service with the Denver Archdiocese.A service to celebrate Karen's life will be held at Holy Family High School, 5195 West 144th Ave., Broomfield, CO 80023 at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 9, 2009. Howe Mortuary and Cremation Services of Longmont is handling arrangements.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Karen Koster Scholarship Fund, c/o Holy Family High School. Please share thoughts, memories and condolences with Karen's family at www.howemortuary.com.