Karen Jean Palmer

 Karen Jean Palmer, born in Baltimore, Maryland, and raised in Shawnee, Kansas, passed away on November 11, 2024. Karen was the beloved middle child of Jack R. and Hilda B. Verhage, who preceded her in death along with older sister Gayle McKinley and younger brother Terry Verhage and step brother Mike Verhage. 

     Karen graduated from Shawnee Mission North High School in 1964, where she was actively involved as the production manager of the yearbook, a member of various clubs including the Quill and Scroll Club, Drill Team, Pep Club, Art Service Club, Chess Club, Prom Committee, and the National Honors Society. Karen continued her education at Kansas State University, graduating in 1968 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. During her time there, Karen was a member of the Delta Phi Delta art honorary, served as the Union Art Committee Chair, and participated in the Kansas State Players.

     Karen's professional journey began at Hallmark Greeting Cards as a card designer. She later moved to California with college roommate, Kathy, where Karen met and married Bobby Palmer. They shared 39 wonderful years together until Bobby's passing in 2011. Together, they owned a bar in downtown Seattle and later a gift store called Ruffles, where Karen worked alongside her mother, Hilda.

      Karen's career continued as she became the editor of Thousand Trails for the Trail Blazer magazine, from which she eventually retired. In retirement, Karen continued her passion for art; enjoying painting, creating mixed media and her biggest passion: ceramic mosaics.  She joined the Southern Arizona Art Guild, where she sold her beautiful creations.

     Karen was a devoted member of the Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene, where she actively participated in small groups and volunteered with the Gospel Rescue Mission. Their faith was a cornerstone of her life.

     Karen is survived by step son, Jeff Palmer (daughter Charlotte), step-mother Retha, numerous nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory, her sense of humor and the legacy of love and creativity she leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Gospel Rescue Mission or the Human Society of Southern Arizona.