Karen L. O'Brien

Karen Hein O'Brien died peacefully at home on January 2, 2010 after a long illness of pancreatic cancer. She was 64. Karen was born in Kimball, Nebraska, on February 22, 1945 to Charles and Dorothy Hein. After attending Kimball schools, she continued her education at Nebraska Wesleyan University in Lincoln, Nebraska. She was a member of Alpha Gamma Delta sorority. She married her high school sweetheart, Larry, May 29, 1965 and moved to Colorado in 1967. Before retiring she worked as a pre-school teacher, a Hospice receptionist, and as an orthodontic dental assistant. She mostly enjoyed being with her grandchildren, family get-togethers and walking her dog Zoe. She also liked movies, making jewelry, reading, and breakfasts out. She had recently reconnected with high school friends and enjoyed their reunions. Survivors include her dad, Charles Hein of Loveland; her husband, Larry of Windsor; sons and their spouses, Jeff & Tarren of Centennial and Steve & Aubrey of Aurora; five grandchildren, Trevor, Ellie, Lindsey, Conor and Emma, all of whom adored her. Also her sister, Barb and Gary Pennington of Ashland, Wisconsin; her brother, Don and Ginger Hein of Arvada; her niece, Dana Pennington of Minneapolis; and nephew, Andy and Kris Pennington of Madison, Wisconsin; plus many friends, cousins, and other family members. She was preceded in death by her mother, Dorothy, and a nephew, Tim. She will be remembered for always smiling and celebrating the best in other people. She was always happy when her friends and family obtained their life goals. A Memorial Celebration is being planned for 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, at Bohlender Funeral Chapel in Fort Collins. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Pathways Hospice, in care of Bohlender Funeral Chapel.