I worked with Karen at Communication Service for the Deaf for years . I really liked her and considered her a good friend. I'm so sorry to hear of her passing. RIP Karen.

happy mothers day...

I met Karen at Stagg High School. I was new to Stockton from 9th grade on. Somehow I met Karen, Mary and Sally and we had so many good experiences for the rest of high school...except for Karen. As others mentioned she did not have the loving home with a family who cherished her. We were Karen's family. We had to lie and sneak to get her out sometimes, but she was with us most of the time. I remember one Easter Week we went to Santa Cruz in my 53 Chevy. We sang "99 bottles of beer" on the wall when we hit HWY 17. I remember the baby shower at the Kramer's house for Jimmy. Karen always worked hard and got by. As others said she never complained. Others mentioned about her step-mom. The moment she learned of the new friend Nancy, Alma found my family telephone number. She called my mother and told her that Karen was bad and not to let me hang around with her. I did not know this. I asked Mom if Karen could spend the night soon thereafter. Mom asked who was she? I told her. Then Mom forbade me from being with her. I told my mother it was wrong that her stepmother hated her. Mom could not imagine this as why would someone do that. So I said okay. After that when Karen came to my house her name was Lynn. Mom had not met her. I eventually told my mom the rest of the story. I note that we all loved Karen and wanted for her to be happy and loved. I think we may have felt guilty that we had so much more. I remember the surprise birthday party given at her Foster Family's home. I think it was her first and only birthday party. We all came. We ate, danced, and had fun. It was odd at the time. Her Father and Alma were not there. We were there for Karen. Karen, you will be remembered and missed. May you be at peace dear friend.