Karen Appleby, 82

In loving memory of Karen C. Appleby

Karen C. Appleby, aged 82, peacefully passed away Oct. 21, 2023, in her beloved Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. She was born to proud parents Victor and Wilma Camm in Coeur d'Alene on July 13, 1941. Karen's vibrant life began in St. Maries, Idaho, where she graduated from St. Maries High School in 1961, known for her enthusiastic spirit as a cheerleader and as the cherished Miss Benewah of 1959.

Post-graduation, Karen continued her journey at the University of Idaho, where she acquired her degree in elementary education in 1965. Her passion for education was unwavering, leading to an extraordinary 45-year career, during which she even played a pivotal role in homeschooling her grandchildren.

On April 12, 1974, she began her lifelong love story by marrying Harold (JR) Appleby. Their remarkable journey spanned 49 beautiful years. Karen's profound faith in God and her deep love for her family were the pillars of her life. To many, she was simply known as "Mom." Karen's heart was as expansive as her kindness, and she was always the first to offer solace and prayers to those in need. Her acts of selflessness knew no bounds, and her warm, comforting hugs left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate to receive them.

Karen's capacity to love unconditionally touched everyone she met. Her church community held a special place in her heart, and she was not just an exceptional teacher but also a gifted seamstress, imparting her skills to countless individuals. She had a profound passion for knitting, and her hands were seldom idle, tirelessly knitting for the benefit of others.

Karen was also an artist, gifted with a talent for painting and drawing, as well as a skilled writer. She crafted captivating stories and poems for both children and adults. Her literary contributions extended to books about prayer and her unwavering faith, including one chronicling her aunts' memories of homesteading in Harrison, Idaho.

Karen leaves behind her loving husband, Harold Appleby Jr, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Her memory lives on through her adoring children: Clayton Appleby and Jennifer of Post Falls, Idaho; Kirk Appleby and Linda of Spokane, Washington; and Mark Appleby of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Her cherished daughters, Kevyn Casson and Mark of Post Falls, and Elizabeth May and Christian of Coeur d'Alene, continue to honor her legacy. Karen is survived by her sister, Vicki Armstrong, and her husband, Don, of Mattawa, Wash., along with her niece, Nanette Sutherland, and her nephew, Michael Petty. The spirit of this remarkable woman lives on in her 12 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

Karen C. Appleby's extraordinary kindness, love and compassion will be eternally remembered. Her legacy endures in the countless lives she touched with her warmth and grace.

To celebrate Karen's life, a memorial service will be held Nov. 11 at 10 a.m. at Heart of the City Church, 772 W. Kathleen Ave., Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests contributions to be made in Karen's name to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Please join us in commemorating the remarkable life of Karen C. Appleby and in sharing your cherished stories and memories, as we honor the beautiful person she was.