Karen Anne Bliesner passed away on March 14 after her heart gave away for the last time.
Karen is survived by a large loving family and friends that span the many years of active involvement in her community. Karen Seppi was born in Renton WA in 1939, the oldest of three children, and attended Renton High School where she met her future husband, Bob Bliesner.
Bob and Karen both graduated from University of Washington and began their life together.
They had four children; Sue, Steve, Sandy, and Siri, and lived in California, Texas, and Hawaii until settling back in the Renton area on Benson Hill in 1973.
They were active members in King of Kings Lutheran Church, where Karen served on nearly every service committee from the food bank, to rummage sale, to the men’s homeless shelter.
She was a long-time Girl Scout leader from Brownies to Seniors, and supported the Lindbergh swim teams by serving lasagna for the breakfast before meets. She traveled around the country, often with her grandchildren on ElderHostel (now RoadScholars) trips or trips that Bob and Karen would dream up. She volunteered for FullLife, an adult day care program, and was a member of PEO, a philanthropic organization where women celebrate and support women’s success. She would make caramel corn, brownies, and other treats to share at gatherings. Bob and Karen could be seen walking all over Renton, often while picking up cans to be recycled in support of the homeless. In 2012, Karen was awarded the Washington State Volunteer Service award by Governor Christine Gregoire in recognition of her years of dedicated public service.
She was known for her ability to listen and provide sage advice, to encourage others to do their best, for having strong opinions when pushed, for her fondness for game shows, and her deep love and affection for her family.
She is survived by her four children, their four spouses, seven grandchildren and one great grandchild.
A Memorial Service is planned for April 14, 2018 at 1:30 p.m. at King of Kings Lutheran Church, 1820 108th Ave SE, Renton 98055.
In lieu of flowers, donations are requested for King of Kings Memorial Fund or to FullLifeCare.org
A short commitment ceremony will be held on April 16 at 10 a.m. at Greenwood Memorial Park in Renton.
