Karen Marlene Verner

She was born March 29,1938, at Grand Coulee, WA to Kenneth R and Allegra M (Thomas) Boone. She was a graduate of William Winlock Miller High School, Olympia; attended La Verne College in La Verne, CA from 1956 to 1958.

She married Kenneth E Born on December 20, 1957, in Lacey. They divorced in 1979.

She married Theodore J Verner on September 12, 1981. He preceded her in death on February 20, 2018.

Mrs. Verner worked 30 years for the State of Washington, the last 25 for the Liquor Control Board. She retired in January 1995.

She was a lifetime member of Lacey Community Church (Brethren/Disciples) and a participating member of First United Methodist Church of Olympia.

Mrs. Verner is survived by sons, Kevin Born, Olympia, Daniel Born, Pittsburgh, PA, and Douglas Born, Lakewood; daughter, Kanina Chavez, Lacey; stepsons, Michael Verner, Lacey, Darrell Verner, Lacey, and Patrick Prather, Spanaway; stepdaughters, Terri Prather, Tumwater, and Debbie, Hayward, Lakewood; sister, Nina Davis, Delano, California, and brother Dennis and wife Becky (Neil) Boone of Olympia; 22 great grand children, and numerous nieces and nephews.

The celebration of life will be held on September 16, 2023, 11 am at First United Methodist Church of Olympia. Pastor Heather Sparkman will officiate. A reception will follow immediately after the service. There will be a private interment at Tahoma National Cemetery where she will join Theodore (Ted) for their next road trip in heaven. If you are unable to attend in person, the service will be live streamed on the First Olympia YouTube Channel with this link: https://youtube.com/live/BD_KAHrtTEA?feature=share

Mom had requested that guests wear bright and happy colors, no black, at her memorial service. Please celebrate Mom’s life in this way whether you are able to attend in person or at home. This is a celebration, so let’s celebrate!

In lieu of flowers the family has suggested making contributions to Homes First or Help Us Move In. These are two organizations Mrs. Verner held very near and dear to her heart.

Homes First is a Washington State nonprofit corporation with a mission to provide affordable, decent housing opportunities for low income people in Thurston County.

homesfirst.org

Help Us Move In (HUMI) is on a mission to help children escape homelessness by engaging communities in sustainable solutions. They work with community agencies that provide services to families at risk or experiencing homelessness. 100% of donations go directly to assist families with housing. All donations made will be matched by a grant.

helpusmovein.org.