Karen Lynn Merryman's Obituary
Monday morning July 15, 2024, with the care of her loving wife and life partner God took his newest child Karen Lynn Merryman home to be with Him. To quote a dear friend "She was 1 in a million" and we could not agree more. Our hearts are broken but her wings are free.
Karen was a native of Ventura, born October 27, 1954, to Ezra Rueben Merryman Jr and Benita Sonya Lowe.Karen is survived by her wife of 32 years Shirley Becker, son Chirstopher Chavez, daughter-in-law Ani, stepchildren Tera Delaney and Timothy Delaney, grandchildren Alexis Bivins husband Taylor, Hunter Chavez, Madison Chavez, Caleb Chavez, great-grand son Jordan Bivins, sister Geri Morger brother-in-law Shane, nieces Trey Mitchell and husband Justin, Taryn Wood and husband Trevor, great niece Shaynie Mitchell and her precious Goldendoodle, Kacey. She was predeceased by her parents, Ezra and Bee and stepfather Joseph Trede.Karen began her lifelong career in the dry-cleaning industry at College Square Cleaners as a young child going to the store with her dad, who was the previous owner. It was there that her love for the customer and joking began. Karen loved working with the public and joking with them even more and she never missed an opportunity to poke some fun into their day. She prided herself in knowing everyone by their first name, and always had their order on the counter as soon as she saw them pull into the parking lot. She moved to Connecticut in 1978 with her son, there she worked with her mother and stepfather at their Carvell Ice Cream store. Karen eventually moved back to California in 1989, going back to work with her dad. Karen sold the cleaners in 2007 planning to retire but she was not one to sit still, and it was not long until she decided to go back to work. She took a part-time position at Saticoy Regional Golf Course, reconnecting with old friends and building new, lifelong friendships with many of the golfers, getting in more joking than she imagined possible. Karen eventually retired for the last time in 2019, and started traveling with her wife, Shirley, having some of the best adventures of their lives.Although Karen's nature was a shy introvert, she was also a vibrant spirit who loved to socialize but not be the center of attention. You could always find her in the midst of a crowd, laughing, sharing fun stories, cheering with her Coors Light, singing or doing an inconspicuous dance, and boy could she dance! She loved music as well and could name a song within a few notes, often offering to give you one hundred dollars to name that song, though she'd give you a hint if you struggled. Karen's favorite food was a hamburger and often quoted Wimpy's famous line to let you know she wanted one, "I'll gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today." She was attentive to her family and friends, staying in touch often with a text, a picture or video, quick story, and most importantly, a funny quip.She always had a big, beautiful smile. She lived passionately, loved quietly and sincerely.Celebration of Life: Saturday, August 17th from 10am to 1pm at the Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill Blvd., Ventura. A huge personality and friend to so many, we will honor her memory and invite you to join us. Guests will have the opportunity to share a favorite memory or short story. Lunch will be served and carpooling is encouraged. Please bring a copy of your favorite photo of Karen, to share on the photo board and leave for the family. Dress attire: wear your favorite shorts, just like Karen would prefer. RSVPs required for planning purposes, by August 5th to Monica Murrietta @ [email protected] or https://forms.gle/BF57dBoqohsK8vDh6 .
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Share a story where Karen's kindness touched your heart.
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