Karen Sue Wallace

Karen Sue Wallace, a cherished wife, mother, sister, friend and thinker, passed away on May 30, 2025, at the age of 78 in Meeker, Colorado. She was born on January 10, 1947, in Blair, Nebraska, to Gene E. Kiefer and Delores E. Marquardt. Known affectionately as Sue, she lived a life rich with love, dedication, and a deep commitment to nurturing those around her. Sue spent her early years in Bergen Park, Colorado, and later she attended Clear Creek High School, graduating in 1965. On September 9, 1966, she married Maurice E Wallace, and together they created a loving family. To this union, three children were born: Michael Timothy in 1967, Scott Allen in 1968, and Jennifer in 1973. Sue was a devoted mother, always proud of her children and their families. She is survived by her children, Michael, Scott, and Jennifer (James) Hume, as well as her grandchildren, Ashlee, Stephanie, Spencer, Toryn, Trevor, and Taylen. She also leaves behind her brother, Randy (Anita) Kiefer, and her sister, Jane Lindstrom. Sue was preceded in death by her husband, Maurice E. Wallace and both of her parents. Sue’s professional life was defined by her passion for education and caregiving. She worked as a teaching assistant and special education teacher at Carlson Elementary School in Idaho Springs for many years. Sue greatly cherished working with children for its challenges and the opportunity to support students. She was known for her kindness and ability to teach the most difficult of children. Her father, Gene Kiefer, served as the Sheriff of Clear Creek County for many years, and Sue took great pride in his service to the community. She often spoke fondly of his dedication, and she herself contributed to the community in her own way, later becoming an at-home caregiver for several ladies in town, providing them with care and companionship during rough times. A woman of many talents and joys, Sue was a wonderful addition to any situation. She had a gift for bringing people together, often hosting family gatherings. Her beautiful yard was a testament to her love of gardening—she adored flowers, hummingbirds, rainbows and bird and squirrel watching. Sue also enjoyed reading and family time. Her warmth and generosity touched countless lives, and she was known for her playful habit of waving at children as they passed by the big hill near her house, a gesture that became a cherished memory for many. Sue was a member of the Lutheran Church and found great comfort in her faith. Despite the demands of running a busy household, she always made time for the things she loved, balancing her roles as a Mother, educator, and community member with grace and determination. Sue faced new difficult challenges on a daily basis to which she responded by "MacGyvering" her way through life. Sue had the gift of creating gadgets and amazing, creative ideas to assist in her daily struggles. She had such integrity, patience, and was most trustworthy to the end! Sue’s family wishes to express their gratitude to The Wing at the Pioneers Medical Center, in Meeker, CO, where she passed peacefully at 12:10 p.m. on May 30, 2025. They also want to extend their thanks and love to the staff and many special friendships that Sue has developed over the past several years while living on the western slope. Thank you to Grant Mortuary in Craig, Colorado, for their support during this very difficult time. Funeral services will be announced at a later date in Georgetown. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a local children’s charity in Sue’s memory, reflecting her lifelong commitment to nurturing young hearts. Sue’s legacy of love, kindness, and community spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.