Karen Jean Lee Combs, 65, of Show Low, Arizona, passed away on September 11, 2024.

Karen was born January 1, 1959, in Oconto, Wisconsin, the daughter of Merlin Gene Lee and Dorothy Ona Turner Lee.

Karen graduated from Northglenn High School in 1977, then went on to Colorado State University, earning a bachelor's degree in Fine Arts

 Karen was the mother to Lacey Rose Combs, born August 22, 1995, and Lucas James Combs, born November 24, 1996.

Karen worked as a Paraprofessional for Jeffco schools in Colorado. She retired at the end of the 2024 school year.

Karen especially loved being creative, whether that was coming up with new ideas for Halloween costumes, arts and crafts, redecorating her home, or drawing, she could often be found making something beautiful.

Karen was a member of Saints and Paul Parish for over 28 years. She was part of The Catholic Daughters organization and Volunteered for many events during her membership.

Karen was known for her strong will, which undoubtedly helped carry her through challenging times. In 1997 Karen had a heart attack and three strokes resulting in a triple bypass heart surgery along with a heart transplant in 1998. She was given an estimate of 10 years to live with her new heart. She lived for 27 years after the fact. Outside of being a survivor, she was known for her silly sense of humor, and her relentless commitment to being the best mother she could be. 

Remaining to cherish Karen’s memory are children, Lacey Combs and Luke Combs; brothers, Patrick Lee, Michael Lee, Thomas Lee, and James Lee; sister, Susan Lee Trippe; step-parent, Shirley Lee; nieces and nephews, Janessa Trippe, Ryan Trippe, Stephanie Lee Wheeler, Shannon Lee Goodwin, Christopher Lee, Michele Lee McCoy, and Jennifer Lee Carter.

Preceding Karen in death are her parents, Dorothy Turner Lee and M.Gene Lee.

Memorial services will be held September 26th, 2024 at 10 am at Saints Peter and Paul Parish.

Memorial donations in Karen’s memory may be directed to The American Heart Association. Envelopes are available and may be sent to Saints Peter and Paul Parish in care of arrangements.