Karen Lynn Ranieri

Karen was born and raised in Illinois, attended Transfiguration Grade School in Wauconda, and graduated from Carmel Catholic High School in Mundelein. She then embarked on a life of adventure which took her all over the world and earned her the love, respect and admiration of countless friends and colleagues. She participated in Outward Bound upon graduation from high school, which instilled in her a love for the outdoors and the knowledge that she could accomplish all that she made up her mind to do. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology from Fort Lewis College in Durango, CO. Her post-baccalaureate studies led to a career as a radiology technologist and clinical educator for medical device companies, culminating in becoming an independent contractor-educator in the field.

Her move to Summit County in 2015 was dream come true—a place where she could ski, hike, paddle board and fully experience all activities related to snow. That love of the snow and helping others prompted her to earn an Avalanche Field Technician certificate from Colorado Mountain College and to start her own non-profit, lumiHEALING, which enabled young cancer thrivers like herself and their caretakers to experience the healing effects of playing in the snow.

As her next adventure begins, Karen leaves behind her loving parents Steve and Sue Ranieri of Fripp Island, SC, her sister and best friend Christine Ranieri (Mark Mendelsohn), her loving brother Anthony Ranieri (Kathryn), her precious niece Abigail and nephew Gabriel (who will always remember their first experience of snow with Auntie Karen), and her loyal dog Phinneas to continue her legacy of courage, compassion, and joy in the fun and beauty of community-building and a life outdoors. She also leaves loving aunts, uncles, cousins, her sister’s step-children, and countless friends and colleagues who have shared her journey and will miss her beyond all measure. She would want us all to remember to give each other space and grace as we move through this time of grief.

Memorial services are pending. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to Jack's Place at Shaw Cancer Center in Edwards, CO.