Vashon - Karen Anne Wheeler, 82, died Monday, September 12, 2022. A celebration of life will be held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, October 15th at Bethel Church in Vashon.
Karen was born February 24, 1940, in Seattle, Washington, to Harry and Annie Marie (Grant) Burgess. She married David Wheeler in 1959. Karen raised three boys with David in Granger, Iowa before returning to Vashon in the 1990's.
Karen worked at a life insurance company in Des Moines, Iowa as a policy holder service representative for several years. After returning to Vashon, she worked in the office at Vashon Sand & Gravel for many years. In addition to her career, she volunteered extensively with Vashon pet rescue groups, Granny's Attic, and many others. She was always there for others with food, a helping hand, a generous heart, and a big hug. As if not busy enough, Karen loved her participation with the Vashon Island Chorale for many years.
Karen cherished numerous friendships; many were life-long. One of her favorite events was getting together with her Vashon school classmates. This summer was the 65th reunion!
Regardless of home address, Karen was caretaker to many animals including cats, dogs, horses, donkeys and even a racoon. There is little doubt that God is using Karen to help with His many creatures in Heaven.
Karen is survived by her brother, Stan Faas; three sons, Mark (Julie) Wheeler of Dallas, Texas, Dean (Annette) Wheeler of Lenexa, Kansas and Tom Wheeler of San Antonio, Texas; ten grandchildren, and five great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, stepdad; son, Scott David Wheeler and brother, Harry Faas.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to www.Baahaus.org/support.html or www.VashonIslandChorale.org/donate.html.