Karen passed away on September 22, 2026. Even as she faced Alzheimer’s disease in her final years, she held on to her sense of humor. She could still surprise her family by flipping them off and calling them all “assholes,” leaving them with stories they’ll tell for years to come.

Karen grew up in Reedsport with her parents, sister, and brother. She met George in high school, and they graduated together in 1964. They married shortly afterward, made their home on the family farm, and raised their four children there.

Karen had a sweet smile and a way of making you feel like the most important person in her world. She will be deeply missed by her husband, George; their children, Bill Black, Trudy Black, Brenda Priest, and Tonya Black; her 11 grandchildren; and her nine great-grandchildren.