Karen Mary Workman

Karen Mary Workman passed away peacefully January 4th, 2025 at the age of 78. She was a loving and generous sister, aunt, and friend. While soft-spoken, Karen had a warmth about her that would fill a room.

Karen and her twin sister, Kristen Marie, were born August 11, 1946 to Henry and Helen Workman. An older brother, Gene Aiden, was there to welcome both girls. Karen grew up in Milwaukie, Oregon, attending St. John the Baptist Catholic grade school and then St. Mary's Academy High School in Portland. She was active in sports, scouting, and camping.

As an adult, Karen worked for Providence Medical Center as an office and unit secretary, retiring after 45 years. She graciously worked holidays, so her co-workers could spend this time with their families.

Karen had three passions - horses, ice skating, and traveling. Karen's interest in horses blossomed in her twenties. She rode with friends, participated in competitions, and owned her own horse "Dusty". In her thirties, Karen took up ice skating. You could see her practicing at both Clackamas Town Center and Lloyd Center Mall, plus entering in local competitions. Karen travelled throughout her life, going abroad to Australia, New Zealand, Spain, Ireland, Holland, and the US East Coast with either her sister or friends. In later years, she would make annual trips to the Pendleton Round-Up and Oregon Coast with her sister.

Karen enjoyed sharing her passions with her nieces and friends. She was a member of Hinson Memorial Baptist Church in SE Portland for many years where she shared her love in Christ with fellow members.

After living in NE Portland for 35 years, Karen moved to River Terrace Memory Care in 2022, where she made new friends and enjoyed her last years.

Karen is survived by sister, Kristen, and brother-in-law Gary; nieces Sheila, Sheri and Patricia; and great-nephew Thaddeus. She was predeceased by parents Henry and Helen, and brother Gene.

Her memorial service is at Zeller Chapel of the Roses in Portland on January 14, 2025.