In Loving Memory
of
Karen Sue Goodell
Karen Sue Goodell, age 68 years, entered into rest June 14, 2024. Karen was born in Clinton, Iowa on January 10, 1956 Albert and Leona (Otto) Matje.
Karen and her 4 siblings would grow up in Clinton, IA. She attended Clinton schools and was a 12 years senior in 1974. While in high school Karen would participate in the choir and played clarinet in the marching band. It was here that she met the love of her life, Randy, in a high school geometry class in 1972. Their love blossomed and over a long weekend in 1973, the couple became engaged. Randy would graduate in 1973 and join the US Army. Karen would graduate a year later in 1974 and soon after the couple would marry. During Randy’s time in the US Army the couple would travel throughout the world and live in Germany and Amsterdam. Eventually, they returned to the United States and found their way to Stevens County, WA and eventually settling in Kettle Falls, WA. Soon after arriving in the area, they welcomed their first child, Brian in 1978, Neil in 1980, Sarah in 1982 and Rachel in 1984.
Not long after Brian arrived, Karen and Randy accepted Jesus Christ and their Savior and Lord. Thus, beginning their life in ministry. Randy would serve in a few churches before landing at the Columbia River Bible Church in Kettle Falls. Karen would take on various other ministries within the church such as the Awana group, nursing home visitation – taking Rachel along with her bunny and/or duck to visit the residents and managing the church’s thrift store. Karen made a point of always putting others ahead of herself.
Karen loved the Oregon Coast. The family would camp there regularly. As the children grew up and had their own families, they would begin to rent an Air BNB so that the entire crew could stay together under the same roof. A favorite memory for Karen and the family was to ride on a whaling boat. Karen loved having her family around her. Time was spent fishing – she could be found with her little fishing pole and singing, “Fishy, Fishy, int the brook, come and bite my lil hook!” She loved watching old movies, and playing board games. Another favorite pastime she enjoyed was skating – both roller skating and ice skating. And the only thing to make all of these activities even more special was to share them with her grandchildren. And in the midst of all the family activity was her fur baby, Peanut.
Karen had quite the sense of humor. Randy loved her cooking and baking, but he didn’t like coconut. Karen would deliberately make a German Chocolate cake just so that he wouldn’t get any and she could enjoy it herself!
Most of all Karen will be remembered for her Unconditional Love – She was ALWAYS there for those she loved.
Karen fought a brave and fierce battle with ovarian cancer for the past four years. She is now home with her Lord and Savior. ALL is GOOD. She has been restored and made perfect and awaits the day she is reunited with Randy, her children, her grandchildren, and little Peanut.
Karen is preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Leona Matje. She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Randy; Sons Brian (Danielle) and Neil (Jen); Daughters Sarah (Ben) Redden and Rachel Morris; Grandchildren Trenton Goodell, Gabriel Morris, Chloe Goodell, Alexa Morris, Lilly Goodell, and Desmond Goodell; Siblings Linda (Bill), Kathy (Dave), Larry, and Karl (Lisa); numerous nieces and nephews.
A special thank you to Dr. Chaudhry and Dr. Grosen; all of the Deaconess physicians and staff; Subaru Guru Guys – Joseph and Jeremy. And all the many men who worked with mom – You know who you are. Special thanks to you!
Services are planned for 11:00 am on July 13, 2024 at the Columbia River Bible Church with fellowship to follow. A private burial will take place at 2:00 pm at Meyers Falls Cemetery.
Please visit the online memorial website and sign her guestbook at www.danekasfuneralchapel.com. Danekas Funeral Chapel & Crematory have been entrusted with her care.
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