December 16, 1957 – October 21, 2026
Karin Jo Nielsen was born in Glendora, California, on December 16, 1957. She grew up with a love of family, friends, horseback riding, and outdoor adventures.
She is survived by her loving father, Richard; siblings, Lori and Eric; partner, Bob; children, Jared and Breanna; stepchildren, Ryan and Steven; and grandchildren, Hanna, Brook, Conner, Westin, Emerson, and Ryder.
Karin graduated from Charter Oak High School in 1976 and went on to earn an Associate's degree from Mt. SAC. She stayed connected with her classmates and the Glendora community throughout her life.
She was a Girl Scout as a child and later became a Girl Scout and Cub Scout leader herself. She was always a devoted mother and taught her children to share her love of family, home, and the outdoors.
Karin worked as a preschool teacher on and off for 30 years and was also employed at Santa Anita Racetrack from 1975 until her retirement in 2023.
Karin was married to Jeff Starr for 14 years. In 1997, she met Bob, and they have been together and in love ever since. They enjoyed their life together, spending time at the river, in the desert, at the beach, in the mountains, at countless family gatherings, and in their own backyard paradise.
During this time, Karin also became a wonderful grandmother.
Her family and friends stood by her side when her cancer returned in 2023 and have already begun to miss her dearly. Karin passed away at home on October 21, 2026.
She will be forever loved and deeply missed by all who knew her.
