Karen Luanne (Murphy) Offermann

Karen passed away peacefully on March 13th, 2021 at the age of 62 with Dieter, her loving husband of 40 years, at her side.

Karen was born on February 5th, 1959 to Ray and Bertha Murphy, who had just moved to Summerland, BC in November. She grew up on the family orchard, along with her brother Greg and sister Linda. After graduating from Summerland Secondary School, Karen attended Cariboo College in Kamloops, BC and earned her nursing degree.

Karen and Dieter were married in 1981 and they lived in Nelson until 1986. During those years, Karen worked at the Castlegar Hospital. In 1986, they moved to the Sicamous area with newborn baby Sarah. Two years later, their son Dale was born. In 1998, the family of four relocated to their beautiful property in Sicamous, which is still the family home.

In addition to raising their children, Karen continued her nursing career at the Revelstoke Hospital. After their children graduated and left home, Karen worked for OPT (Options for Sexual Health) and delivered compassionate and non-judgemental care.

Karen loved the outdoors and enjoyed hiking, camping, canoeing and boating. Her honeymoon trip with Dieter through the Purcell Mountains is a story in itself! Karen was also an avid gardener who grew beautiful rose bushes and superlative garlic, along with many other vegetables, berries, fruits and nuts. Needless to say, she was a wonderful cook! Her other hobbies included reading, knitting, sewing and playing the guitar and piano.

Karen was also passionate about animals and her excellent care ensured their cats enjoyed a happy and long life! Karen and Dieter also owned a succession of German Shepherds, and Karen dedicated the last two years to helping Raven recover from surgery on her hind legs. Karen spent many precious times in her early years with her horse, Snowy. In recent years, Karen educated herself about, and supported, the Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge.

Karen was predeceased by her father Ray, and her brother Greg. Remaining to mourn her passing and to celebrate her life, with all its vibrancy and sense of humour, are her mother Bertha; her husband Dieter; her children Sarah and Dale; her sister Linda and her family; the Offermann clan; and many other extended family members and friends. And, of course, all the critters!

Dieter’s loving and faithful care enabled Karen to remain at home throughout nearly all of her illness. Dieter’s devotion also made her hospice stay the very best it could possibly be. A heartfelt thank you to the staff of Bastion Place for the kindness and care that Karen received in her final weeks. In Karen’s memory, donations can be made to the Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge.