Karen Marie Ward

Karen Marie Ward was unexpectedly called to her home in heaven on March 24, 2022 at the age of 80.

She was born October 24, 1941 in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Arthur and Doris Galpin. In 1958 she married LeRoy Ward, together they had four children. She later married and raised her family with her sweetheart, Arlen Ward, on February 20, 1971.

The sudden loss of our wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend is felt deeper than words can express. As the matriarch of our tribe, and the “glue” of our family, she loved big. Her nature was to love fiercely, give generously, and live selflessly. Although she was an avid collector, there was nothing she owned that she treasured more than her family and her pets; and there was nothing she loved more than time with her family - preferably laughing and reminiscing. Her sentimental heart and mind meant she cherished every memory and savored every moment making new ones. Through the struggles and tribulations of life, her faith in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ never wavered. Every conversation she thanked God for some small blessing and a phone call never ended without knowing how much she loved you. The grief and sorrow we feel now, though immense, could never match the immeasurable love we have for her that will remain in our hearts. We pray that she finds peace and rest with her Savior until the joyous day of our reunion with her.

She is survived by her husband, Arlen Ward; her brothers, Arthur John Galpin III and Jerry Galpin; her children, Doris Browne (Dave), Sonny Ward, Doug Ward, and Carrie Barker (Ralph); and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Doris Galpin; brothers, Douglas and Terry Galpin; and her dear pets.

Graveside service will be held Wednesday, March 30, 2022, at 3:30 pm at Memorial Redwood Mortuary and Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her name to The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) as tribute to her adoration and love of animals.