Karen Lueking Parsons, age 81, of Steamboat Springs, Colorado, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2025, surrounded by her family's circle of love, after a four-year battle with lung cancer.

Karen was born on January 25, 1944, to Ellen and Lester Lueking, in St Louis, Missouri. The middle of three siblings, she grew up in a neighborhood where family and friends were close by, creating a childhood filled with love and caring support. While attending Normandy High School, Karen excelled in both academics and sports while developing a lifelong interest in sports which she enjoyed well into her 70's.

Karen attended Valparaiso University where she majored in Education. It was at Valpo where she met her husband Chuck on a blind date and the two were married after a short courtship, a union that lasted over 58 years.

Karen and Chuck eventually settled in Northwest Indiana and established their home in Chesterton, Indiana. A devoted wife and mother, Karen dedicated her life to the care and nurturing of her family. Raising her three girls, Krista, Karlyn, and Katey gave her great joy, offering guidance, comfort, and encouragement through every stage of their lives. Karen also spent time supporting many community organizations and was particularly proud of her involvement in the Tri Kappa Sorority, a local chapter serving the Chesterton community.

Karen found joy living her later years near her children and grandchildren in the mountains of Colorado, where she and Chuck had retired to in 2005. They built their dream home in Clark, Colorado, where Karen loved the beautiful fall colors and the long, snowy winters. She spent many days skiing at Steamboat Ski Resort with her family. She also loved her birds to no end, making sure they were fed and cared for year-round.

After moving to Steamboat Springs in 2017, Karen continued her volunteer work at the Heart of Steamboat Methodist Church, LiftUp of Steamboat, and at UCHealth in day surgery where she became known as the Cookie Lady! She will always be remembered for her caring and gentle spirit, her kindness, and open heart.

Karen is survived by her loving husband of 58 years, Charles (Chuck) Parsons, daughters Krista Drobek (Kris), Karlyn Wagner (Ian), and Katey Parsons; grandchildren Grace Drobek, Marissa Drobek, Maisie Wagner, Wiley Wagner, Isabelle Drobek, and Damerae Parsons Burgher; brother Lew Lueking, brother and sister-in-law Thomas and Sally Parsons, sister-in-law Candy Parsons, and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her family, she leaves behind countless friends and loved ones who were touched by her sweetness, generosity, and unwavering support.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Jane Schneider, nephew Chase Brumm, brother-in-law Roland Parsons, sister-in-law Jill Lueking, and stepfather Elmer Kuhlman.

A memorial service will be held on October 4th at 11am at the Heart of Steamboat United Methodist Church in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in honor of Karen Parsons to the charities listed below or a charity of your choice:

Jan Bishop Cancer Center (JBCC – Cancer Services) at Make a Donation – Yampa Valley Medical Center Foundation .

Routt County Humane Society – Routt County Humane Society Donation Page