KAREN ANN CHRISTENSEN

Karen Ann Christensen, 79, peacefully and gracefully left this earth on September 30, 2021, after a nearly 2-year struggle with cancer. At her request, Karen did not leave the home where she had lovingly created a life for her family during the past 53 years. Karen’s children and grandchildren all visited her and expressed their love for her during the days and weeks prior to her death.

Karen was born in Chico on August 14, 1942, to Edwin Wilmer Penner and Martha Lizzie (Warkentin) Penner. She attended Citrus Elementary School, Chico Junior, and later graduated from Chico High School in 1960. Karen happily told her grandchildren about being voted “Miss Caduceus” (most friendly) during her senior year at Chico High.

Karen met Nels Christensen during high school, and they were later married at Grace Baptist Church in Chico, on July 13, 1963. Nels and Karen recently celebrated their 58th anniversary. They had 3 children: Kirsten Ann (James Roberts), Kari Elizabeth (Roy Applegate), and Nels Anchor (Jess Roberts).

Karen’s faith, her family, and her relationships were the most important things in her life.

She was a lifelong member of Grace Community Church, and served both as church pianist and on the hospitality committee. She was a nurturing, warm, loving wife, mother, and grandmother, devoting endless hours to her family. Karen and Nels frequently referred to their grandchildren as “their treasures.” Everyone who met Karen sensed her warmth, acceptance, and kindness. Her love for people set them at ease. She was welcoming, accepting, joyful, and tolerant. She always lit up a room with her smile.

Karen is survived by her husband, 3 children, her older brother Ron Penner (June) and her grandchildren: Nicole Applegate, Koll Roberts (Sabine Ludwig), Elizabeth Applegate, Charlotte Roberts, Mary Applegate, and Emmylou Christensen.

A Celebration of Life is planned for October 29 at 1:00 pm at Grace Community Church. In an effort to value and respect the physical welfare of all those attending, masks will be required, and attendees should be vaccinated for COVID (or be medically excepted).

Karen’s husband and children would like to offer their sincerest thanks to all those at Enloe Regional Cancer Center, Enloe Palliative Care, and Enloe Hospice Care who graciously cared for Karen. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Grace Community Church.