Karen UTHEIM Obituary

May 16, 1941 - May 20, 2023

Karen Elizabeth Utheim passed away peacefully at 10:13 pm Saturday, May 20, 2023, at the VA Home in Spokane. Born in Chelan, WA, Karen grew up in Fairfield, WA, then moved to western Washington where she attended high school and Western Washington University. Returning to Spokane with her young family in 1969, she was a passionate advocate of the city and its children. A kind, caring, smart, and generous woman, Karen was deeply committed to her family, and a champion of any underdog (yes, this extended to canines).

She was preceded in death by her parents, Kathryn Eugenia Shore and Earl Sund, her husband, Gudmund Utheim, and her daughter, Joyce Ann (Lund) Antolock. She is survived by her children, Kirsten Anne Utheim of Vancouver, BC, Alissa Hill of Spokane, Derek Andrew Utheim of Cheney, WA; her grandchildren, Kathryn Meers, Miles (Heidi) Drew, Brandi Stevenson, Alexis and Aundrea Hill, great-grandchildren, Kodi (Marissa) Drew, Melissa (Allan) Drew Maina, Daina Drew, Jenesis Stevenson, and great-great-grandchildren, Deja and Malcolm Drew, and Drew Mwangi Maina, as well as cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Her quick wit and quirky humor are sorely missed. An impassioned teacher, leader, and advocate, her role and resonance at Community Mental Health for over 20 years was broadly acknowledged. She led the CAP (Child Abuse Project) team in a new, highly impactful approach to the treatment of abuse in family systems and was highly regarded for her commitment to and capacity for this valuable work.

Never one to stand by; when Karen saw need or injustice, she spoke and acted with grace, tenacity, and resolve and engendered trust. Karen was the recipient of many awards and acknowledgments for her work as a Child Advocate, volunteer, and leader in promoting the well-being of the children of Spokane.

As a board member and avid volunteer at the Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery, she was a treasured resource. Always focused on helping others, she ensured children's needs were met whether for immediate care, well-chosen Christmas gifts, an understanding smile, or a comment that could comfort and soothe another's pain.

Karen loved and nurtured her home, family, and garden, her team at work, friends, and neighbors. Her presence in our lives is sorely missed yet resonates in those she left behind. We were privileged to know her.

Contributions in her honor could be made to the Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery, the Alzheimer's Association, or the charity of your choice.