Karen Sue Parker

Karen Sue Parker, 78, passed away in Ridgecrest, California on June 7, 2024 while surrounded by family. She was born on July 1, 1945, in Bakersfield, California as Martha Harvey before being adopted by Leander and Justina Janzen. Karen will be remembered as a steadfast and loving wife and the centerpiece of four generations of loving and wild Parkers. For them, she wasn't just Karen; she was Mom and Grandma, but she was especially known as Gee.

She is survived by her husband, Bart Parker; her four children, Justina, Bart, Beau, and Judy; her eight grandchildren, Destinee, Chance, Matthew, Jennifer, Shannon, Reghann, Ashten, and Lilah; and her eight great-grandchildren, Ashtynn, Cambria, Phoebe, Hayden, Parker, Alexander, Natalya, and soon to be August. Karen joins her grandson Rylan in heaven.

After growing up in Pasadena, California, Karen moved her life to Ridgecrest when she and Bart were married on May 30, 1964. This year, the couple commemorated 60 years of happy marriage. Bart's job took them to many cities from California to Nevada to Alaska before they settled and raised their four children in Randsburg, California. Karen was known by her community as a selfless neighbor and a dedicated friend. If she wasn't pulling weeds or sweeping the streets, she could be found having coffee and gossiping with her favorite people. To her family, she was known for taking a great interest in all her children and grandchildren's lives. Those who knew Karen closely understood that she best showed her care and affection by getting worried. If there was something she could do to help, she would stop at nothing to do it.

Karen survived breast cancer, traveled the country, and spread her love to countless friends and family members. Her death leaves a space that cannot be easily filled in, but we find peace knowing that she is free from her suffering.

A memorial will be held in Johannesburg, California on June 23, 2024 at 3PM at the Rand District Foursquare Church, where she attended when able. All are welcome to join us to celebrate Karen. In remembrance, the family suggests making any donations to the Rand Desert Museum.