Karen Joanne Ryan, 80, of Anacortes, passed away peacefully on Good Friday, April 18, 2025. Born on December 3, 1944, in Olympia, Washington, to Hugh and Betty (Borgford) Ryan, Karen was a beloved sister to Virginia, Robert, Kenneth, and Kerry. A proud graduate of Olympia High School, she earned her bachelor's degree from Western Washington University.

Right after the graduation from WWU, Karen taught Spanish at Governor John Roger's HS in Puyallup from 1968-1973. She was a dedicated Spanish teacher, sharing her passion for language and culture. Through her involvement with the La Conner Rotary Club, she traveled to Honduras several times to support causes for schoolchildren, there. She also taught Spanish classes at the Anacortes Senior Center, enriching her community.

Karen lived a vibrant and meaningful life, calling Anacortes home for 35 years. She owned and managed Lake Goodwin Resort in Stanwood, Washington, for a span of 30 years. The resort was a welcoming year-round, family-friendly venue offering tent camping, RV sites, and vacation home rentals. Pets were welcomed and she thoughtfully included an enclosed dog-run in consideration on non pet owners. Additional  featured amenities comprised of WiFi, cable, laundry, a snack bar, a store, and entertainment activities for all age groups such as boating, swimming, fishing, outdoor games, and a children's playground.

Karen's deep Christian faith guided her life. She was an active member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Anacortes. As member of the Altar Society, she assisted with keeping the interior of the Church clean. She was part of The Belles of St. Mary, an Apostolate that organizes fund raisers and funeral luncheons. As part of the Seven Sisters Apostolate, she devoted a day each week to pray for her pastor, offering Adoration before the Blessed Sacrament.

An avid boater, Karen cherished her time on the water as a member of the Fidalgo Yacht Club, where she delighted in as a bar steward, and a yacht club in Mexico. Her warmth, generosity, and adventurous spirit touched countless lives.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents and siblings Virginia, Robert and Kenneth. She  is survived by her brother Kerry, several nieces and nephew as well as great grands, and a wide circle of friends and community members who will forever cherish her memory.

To share memories of Karen, please visit:
https://evanschapel.com/obituary/karen-ryan