On January 13th, 2023, Karen Jane Kirby passed away peacefully and joined her Lord in the Everlasting at the age of 69.
Karen was born August 14th, 1953. She was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Eline Kirby. Her survivors include her adored son Bryce Ian Kirby and his son Kolten, two brothers Kenneth Karl Kirby and his son Conner, and Michael James Kirby, his wife Diana and their two children Jarred and Meredith. Karen also leaves behind many additional relatives and friends who will miss her presence here with them.
Karen loved life and especially the outdoors. She spent much of that time outdoors with Mickey, a horse she had for 31 years and her loyal dog Caney. Riding, hunting, camping and fishing were her special activities and loves. Horseback riding was her favorite thing to do, from early in her life until she physically could not do so anymore.
Her life included graduating as Valedictorian from Livorno American High School in Italy. After high school she completed courses and became a Veterinary Assistant working in Manchaca, Texas for a number of years. She also spent several years working for the University of Texas in the Grounds Maintenance Department. Karen always stayed busy working and enjoying the outdoors, and it was during these times that she met her special friend Charlie Varenkamp. They remained close companions for 23 years.
Karen had an engaging smile that was only surpassed by her strong will. Over her life she endured major chemotherapy, crippling arthritis and a heart attack. She finally succumbed to a debilitating stroke, but throughout all of these struggles she kept moving forward.
Visitation will be held at the Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel on Saturday, January 21, 2023 from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. followed by a funeral service at 1:00 p.m. with the Reverend Jeremy Roy officiating. Interment will be in the Zorn Cemetery beside her beloved uncle Curtis Urban. Serving as pallbearers will be her loving family members.
Contributions may be made in memory to Hope Hospice, 611 N. Walnut Ave., New Braunfels, Texas 78130 or to the Guadalupe County 4-H Memorial Scholarship Program, 210 East Live Oak Street, Seguin, Texas 78155.
You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.