Karen Johnson Pardoe

Her journey began in Mason City, Washington during the Grand Coulee Dam project, where her parents Leighton Wayne Johnson and Martha Marie Pauline Schoening resided. Later, the family found a home in Portland, Oregon, crafted by Karen's own father. Her academic success and involvement in social and service clubs were on display during her time at Lincoln High School, where she graduated in 1957, and then at Oregon State University, where she became a lifelong member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority.

Following her OSU graduation in 1961, Karen's professional path unfolded at Neiman Marcus in Dallas, marking the start of a remarkable 28-year career in various executive management roles. In 1967 she was named one of the Outstanding Young Women of America in recognition of her outstanding ability, accomplishments and service to her community, country, and profession – an honor that proved prophetic for the extraordinary life she was destined to lead.

In 1963 Karen met William “Bill” Hunter Pardoe on a blind date. Soon after they were water skiing together every weekend. On October 9, 1965, Karen and Bill started their wonderful 58 years of marriage residing in University Park. They enjoyed water sports, sports, travel, church and serving their community.

In 1989, Karen transitioned to her second career—a dedicated wife, community advocate, and church volunteer. Her conversational mastery was evident in every room she entered, effortlessly uniting people and accomplishing tasks with grace.

Her influence resonated deeply at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, where she and Bill began their service in 1970. In 2020 Karen was honored as the Woman of Saint Michael Spring Luncheon Chair at the Dallas Woman’s Club for serving the church in leading Jubilee Bingo, the wedding guild, altar guild, and serving as a vestry member and a board member for the Foundation to being President of the Women of Saint Michael.

Her love of retail found expression at the St. Michael’s Woman’s Exchange, where she dedicated nearly 30 years, leaving an indelible mark on its success. She enjoyed working on the floor, and served as Treasurer, Board Chairman, Volunteer Buyer and performed many accounting and operational duties.

In 2014, Karen received the esteemed title of a Dame of the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem, embracing it with her trademark humility.

Traveling alongside her beloved husband, Karen explored the world, and in particular cherishing lake life at Lake Sallie, MN, and the picturesque Cotswolds in England. Yet, her true sanctuary was found nestled in their home on Colgate for five decades, where she felt most at ease, cradling a cat on her lap—an enduring symbol of her lifelong companionship.

Karen’s memberships and leadership roles extended to various organizations, showcasing her commitment to service. During her life she held memberships at the Dallas Woman’s Club, Dallas Garden Club, Kappa Alpha Theta Alumnae Association, OSU Alumni Association, Mortar Board Alumni Association, and more. She served as a monthly Meals on Wheels driver and was a board member of the Suicide and Crisis Center Auxiliary.

Notably, she served on the Board of Community Partners of Greater Dallas for nine years, pioneering the launch of the Rainbow Room to support social workers impacting the lives of neglected and abused children.

Yet, beyond her myriad accomplishments, one defining trait stands out—her infectious smile. Karen had the rare ability to illuminate any room and infuse joy into the hearts of those around her. Her legacy is not just in her accomplishments but in the warmth, she shared, a beacon that will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know her.

She is survived by her loving husband, William “Bill” Pardoe, and remembered fondly by her brother Leighton Wayne Johnson II (Carmela) of Portland, Oregon, and sister-in-law Jane Pardoe Altavilla of Monterey, California. Karen's legacy lives on through her niece Lena Johnson Prine (Justin) and their children Holden and Scarlett, residing in Salem, Oregon. Additionally, she is remembered by niece Sara Boone of Vancouver, Washington, and nephews Rolf Boone (Chiyo) and their son Max of Lacey, Washington, and Greg Schesso and his daughter Natalia of Lake Oswego, Oregon, and several other cousins.

Karen's warm presence will be missed by many, including her loving cousins and extended family in the Pacific Northwest. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donating to the Jubilee Pardoe Scholars Program or an organization that brings infectious smiles, honoring Karen's memory.

A memorial service to celebrate Karen's life will be held on January 13, 2024, at 10:00 AM at St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church. Officiants will be The Reverends Mark S. Anschutz and the Greg Pickens.

May her soul rest in peace.