Karen J. Castle, 80

Karen J. Castle, 80, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, passed away peacefully Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023, at home at Rose Terrace Cottages. Born in Watertown, Minn., to parents Gottlieb Barlau and Hilda Barlau, Karen grew up on her father’s farm. She was an only child. 

Karen married Richard A. Castle on Nov. 10, 1981, at the Hitching Post Chapel in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Richard preceded her in death Oct. 16, 1993. She was a homemaker and enjoyed baking, playing bingo, and word puzzles, reading the Bible, visiting with friends and family, and making people laugh with her jokes. Karen loved to care for animals and took in several cats in need over the years who would become beloved family pets. She was a member of Christ the King Lutheran Church. 

Karen is survived by her son, Shane Barlau, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and her daughter, Amber Johnsen (Castle), son-in-law Courtney Walden of Portland, Ore., and cousin Shirley Velander of Bismarck, N.D.

Karen’s service will be held Friday, Nov. 3, at 2 p.m. at an outdoor graveside service at Coeur d’Alene Memorial Gardens at 7315 N. Government Way, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815. Services in care of Yates Funeral Home. Please visit Karen’s memorial and sign her online guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.

If you would like to send a memorial in Karen’s honor, they may be made to Companions Animal Center at https://www.companionsanimalcenter.org.