Karen Ann Baxter, known for her loving and vibrant spirit, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 30. Karen’s spirit and light continue to shine, carried forward by her beloved husband, Ryan, and their children Trevan, Kaden, Kyla, Audrey, Milayna, and Tage. She is also lovingly remembered by her parents, Don and Janice Bowers, and her six siblings, Brenda, Barbara, Mark, Brent, David, and Brian.
Born in Ontario, Oregon, on August 4, 1977, and raised in Parma, Idaho as the youngest of seven children, Karen’s journey was one of love, laughter, and adventure from the start. After graduating from Parma High School, she attended Ricks College, where her love story with Ryan began. They were united for time and eternity when married and sealed in the Boise, Idaho Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Karen and Ryan continued their studies at Brigham Young University, where she worked to support Ryan’s completion of two degrees and also earned her Bachelor’s degree in Family Science.
Ryan and Karen’s life together was a journey filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Their path took them to various destinations, including California and then Ohio where Karen was a full-time mother and was a champion and support to Ryan during his doctoral studies. On to Massachusetts and then finally arriving in Eagle, Idaho. It was a journey filled with adventure, a growing family, and making so many cherished friendships. Karen knew and desired that motherhood be her greatest and most important calling in life. She was a beacon of love, service, and radiating joy.
Karen was a beautiful and accomplished dancer. During the last six years she ran a clogging dance studio from her home. She was dancing until the end, and her legacy of teaching to joyfully dance has affected many adults and children. She was the life of the party, bringing joy and laughter wherever she went. Karen never wanted to miss out on any of the fun because her supreme joy was in uniting everyone. Always looking for opportunities to serve others, her warm and inviting nature led her to lovingly invite others to come together, creating lasting memories with family and friends.
Karen’s unwavering devotion to her Savior Jesus Christ, her family, and her innate gift for forging deep connections have woven an indelible legacy. This legacy will unite and inspire not only her family but everyone touched by her life. Karen’s life remains a beacon of joy and a powerful testament to the enduring strength of relationships nurtured in love and shared experiences.
Her influence, a testament not just to a life imbued with purpose, but to a steadfast belief in bonds that transcend our earthly sojourn.
A funeral service will celebrate Karen’s life on Thursday, April 4, at 1133 N. Park Lane, Eagle, Idaho. Viewings will be held on Wednesday evening from 6 pm – 8 pm at the Bowman Funeral Parlor at 10254 W Carlton Bay Dr, Boise, ID 83714, and ahead of the funeral from 9:30 am – 10:45 am at the site of the funeral service.
To watch the service please click the following link https://zoom.us/j/94056806970