Karen Renate Ruhmann

Karen Renate Ruhmann was born Karen Renate Leonhardt on January 5, 1943 in Hamburg, Germany. The vivacious athletic girl developed into an elegant, determined and artistically accomplished woman. She was a graphic designer and art director in Frankfurt, Germany; Vienna, Austria and London, England.

She moved to the United States in 1970 and married Lony Ruhmann. Karen broadened her creative talents studying fine art in Chicago. From stained glass artist to painter, Karen became known for her abstract expressionism- her work exhibited from the East Coast to California.

Following the sudden death of her beloved husband in 2000, she relocated from Pinehurst, North Carolina to Carmel where she found the healing support of a community of new friends. She excelled at tennis, enjoyed travel and intellectual debate.

Karen met life’s challenges with strength of mind and spirit while giving those around her, human and animal, the gift of her compassionate and generous heart. Her philanthropies included CHOMP, SPCA, and animal assistance organizations.

Karen left on July 23, 2012 at age 69, as she had lived – bravely and peacefully.

She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her sister, Brigitte Turner of Southampton, England; her lifelong friend Oscar Steffens of Switzerland; her step-sister Monika Sorg of Germany; her sisters-in-law Else Burtness of Centerport, New York and Lotte Ruhmann of Germany; her cousins Dr. Frederic Gibbs of Ashland, Oregon and Dr. Erich Gibbs of Wilmette, Illinois; her nieces and nephews; her cherished dog Gypsy; and a family of loving friends.

Private services. Please make contributions in remembrance of Karen to your favorite pet friendly organization.