Karen Rae Gibson, a life-long resident of Ventura, CA, died peacefully after a two-year battle with cancer on February 25, 2022, at the age of 75.
Karen is survived by her husband, Christopher Michalak, her sister, Elizabeth Kimery, her four children, and their spouses, Kimberly Fortin and her husband Lance, Kristine Butrovich and her husband Edward, Tina Tyner and her husband Josh, and Jake Kochel; her grandchildren, Delancey Fortin, Keeley Kerr and her husband Austin, Clay Fortin and his wife Nicole, Joely Shiver and her husband Will, Kassidy Fortin, Kacey Hammond and her husband Caleb, Cody and Austin Butrovich, and Grace and Sophia Tyner; and her great-grandson, Keiren Kerr. She is predeceased by her parents.
She was born on March 6, 1946, to James Raymond and Myrtle Mae Gibson. She graduated from Ventura High School, class of 1964. She worked for a doctor as an assistant and was a hairdresser for multiple convalescent homes. In her retirement, she volunteered with the Carpenteria Seal Sanctuary.
Karen was an ocean lover and a sea glass collector. She was very artistic and made art out of the sea glass, shells, and driftwood she collected. She was also an adventure lover! She loved hiking, traveling, and swimming with sea turtles. Hawaii and New Zealand were her favorite destinations. She was well-known for her kind heart, warm smile and joyful personality. She had an infectious laugh that brought smiles to everyone around her. Her favorite thing to do was spending time and supporting her grandchildren. She was a follower of Jesus and sang in the church choir growing up. She loved and served people in the way that Jesus calls us to, and this love is the way she will be most remembered.
A Hawaiian-themed memorial service is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on March 19th at Ventura Missionary Church. Pastor Doug Colby will officiate. If you would like to send your condolences, in lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary.