In Memory

Karen Christofferson (Lewis)

Karen Lewis of Everson, Washington went home on January 29, 2008, surrounded by her family. She was 46, born in Bellingham on June 1, 1961 to Dale and Lee Ellen Christofferson. Karen was a 1979 Bellingham High graduate. Karen married Ritt Lewis in November of the same year. During the course of Karen's life she enjoyed many of God's blessings; some of which included traveling, snow skiing, gardening, and believe it or not, work. She was especially drawn to anything having to do with interior design. Her first experience in this realm was under her mother's tutelage at H.G. Walker Co. at the age of 15. She continued to work in this capacity only on a much more practical level, decorating the family home. She never seemed to tire of the process. It was something that she relished. That, along with raising kids, took up most of her time when she was a younger woman. There were brief stints at other occupations; waitressing, crafts & rural mail carrier to name a few. Karen & Ritt's latest quest was the result of their shared love for ceramic tile and natural stone as an art form. This led to the formation of "Stone & Clay" a retail store that they started and are continuing to operate. Karen received so much joy out of helping people arrive at a selection that was both beautiful & fitting for their homes. Her talents were evident. Her warm smile & passionate spirit will be sorely missed. She touched so many lives in so many different ways. Her true passion was always her family. She truly was a virtuous woman; selfless, caring, always putting the needs of others before her own. Visitors & family can attest to the fact that you couldn't escape a visit to the family home without being besieged with offers of food & drink. If you were to refuse then you had to at least take some home to be enjoyed later. Her kids referred to her as the "Hostess with the mostest." To her parents and siblings she was the one that was always there if ever a need arose. Whether it be a decorating issue, planning an upcoming event, giving counsel or even a hug! She was always there. I guess it was appropriate when a family friend coined her as "Carin' Karen." As difficult as it is to say goodbye to our; Mom, sister, daughter, friend and lover, we take comfort knowing that it's only for a short while. We'll be reunited again someday on the other side. We'll share an eternity together. Karen leaves behind husband Ritt. Daughter Jessica Avraham and husband Idan, Daughter Breia Salsbery and husband Sean, Daughter Jackie Lewis, Son Aaron Lewis and fiancé Kristen, grandson Jerrod Lewis, parents Dale & Lee Christofferson, brother Jim Christofferson and wife Teri, sister Kathy Salisbury and husband Mark, sister Susan Jenkins and husband Greg; along with many nieces and nephews.