Karen Kay Strasheim

Karen Dinkel-Strasheim was born in Maryland, but as the daughter of a military coronel, she lived in a number of places throughout her youth, including Colorado, Germany and Kansas. She then spent her teenage years and entire adult life in Colorado.

She met and married her husband John Strasheim in Lakewood at age 20 (in 1968), and subsequently had three daughters: Connie (49) Wendy (47) and Julie (46).

A wise, intelligent, kind and outgoing woman who had (and has!) a true heart and love for others, Karen enjoyed working in diverse careers, many involving managerial positions. In her early adult years, she worked for Frontier Refining & Marketing, then for Rocky Mountain Airways as both a flight attendant and marketing manager; and finally, as the office manager and administrator for her husband John’s CPA practice.

She loved traveling and in her later years, organized over 35 cruises worldwide for John and herself, which provided rich times of enjoyment for them both.

A devoted mother and wife, Karen often put her family’s needs above her own, and did everything she could to make her loved ones happy—even at times suffering to see their needs met. She was always available with an ear to listen, a hand to hold, and words of comfort or advice. She also thoughtfully provided for their practical needs, by cooking delicious meals, sewing together dresses for her daughters and getting involved in their schooling—among many other tasks. 

Karen was compassionate with a true servant’s heart, which was also reflected in her volunteer work at her children’s elementary school, and at a hospital in her younger years.

Finally, Karen was a woman who deeply loved God and Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. She aimed to live a life that pleased Him, above all. His love, presence, peace and joy were reflected in the love that she poured out to others, as well as in her radiant smile, kind touch, and gentle spirit. She was, and is, a beautiful woman who will forever be loved and deeply missed by many.