Karen Conder Smith

Karen spent her life embracing her family, whom she loved very much. And in return, she was deeply loved by her family, friends, and all who knew her.

Karen grew up in the Bonneville Hills area of Salt Lake City with her three brothers, sharing a childhood filled with adventure, laughter, and cherished family memories.

From a young age, she developed a love of travel and often visited her mother's homeland of England, where she connected with extended family and embraced the history and traditions she treasured throughout her life.

In 1969, Karen married her high school sweetheart, Howard Smith. Together they built a life centered on family, travel, and adventure. Summers at Lake Powell with family became treasured traditions, and over the years Karen and Howard explored the world together. Among her favorite destinations were Fiji, Russia, and Egypt, places that reflected her love of history, culture, and discovery.

Karen was endlessly curious about the mysteries of life. She enjoyed history, the supernatural, and the unexplained, often spending hours with her dear friend Jackie Clements discussing aliens, unexplained phenomena, and life's unanswered questions. Her sense of wonder brought joy and energy to every conversation.

Above all, Karen was a devoted mother. Her children were the center of her world, and she loved them unconditionally.

She is survived by her children:

Son, Matthew Smith and his wife, Marijane, and their children Parker (Michael), Carsen, Zander, and River

Daughter, Christine Smith

Son, Aaron Smith and his wife, Faisa, and their children Sameera and Isaiah, and son Harrison (mother, Marcie)

Daughter, Jennie Gochnour

She is also survived by her brothers:

Robert (Cindy) Conder of Corvallis, Oregon

Jeff (Shannon) Conder of Sandy, Oregon

Alan (Lisa) Conder of Livermore, California

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Howard, and her parents, Dean and Eileen. We find comfort in imagining their joyful reunion.

Karen found happiness in music, movies, painting, puzzles, reading, gardening, and collecting fairies. Her beloved garden gnomes stood watch over the flowers she lovingly tended. She also loved the beach, often watching the waves roll in and appreciating that no two waves were ever alike. That outlook reflected how she viewed life. Finding something unique and special in every person and experience.

Professionally, Karen worked at St. Mark's Hospital Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation before dedicating herself to serving individuals with disabilities through Utah's Division of Services for People with Disabilities. Through her work and volunteer efforts, she helped foster greater understanding, opportunity, and respect for those she served.

One of Karen's greatest expressions of love was her lifelong care for her daughter, Chrissy, who lives with a permanent neurological disorder. For nearly five decades, Karen devoted herself to her daughter's well-being with extraordinary patience, strength, and unconditional love. She never saw caregiving as a burden, but as an extension of who she was.

That same spirit touched every part of her life. Whether supporting family, celebrating her grandchildren, helping friends, or caring for those in need, Karen consistently put others first. Her kindness, generosity, and compassion left a lasting impact on everyone around her.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers and staff of Cedarwood Assisted Living Center in Sandy and Utah Home Health and Hospice for the comfort, dignity, friendship, and compassionate care they provided during Karen's final years. Karen often joked that they treated her like the Queen of England, a dream she and her mother had lovingly shared.

Karen's legacy is one of love, service, curiosity, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to family. She taught us to embrace adventure, value others, and show love through our actions.

Though she will be deeply missed, her influence and the memories she created will remain with us always.

Karen will be laid to rest at Wasatch Lawn (3401 Highland Dr) on Saturday November 14. There will be a viewing at 10am followed by a graveside ceremony.

Until we meet again, Karen, may you find endless beaches, beautiful gardens, fascinating mysteries, and your loved ones waiting by your side.