Karen

To Foster: To cherish; to promote the growth of; to encourage; to sustain

Karen Jordan fostered. Everything.

With the love of her life she raised four brilliant kids and I’d say five. For Drea was Karen’s third daughter, there are no ifs and/or buts about it.

She cherished her family; nieces and nephews, sisters, brothers and in-laws. She encouraged each of us lucky to know her to rise to our full potential and provided us all with a safe haven when we needed nothing more than unconditional love. Her family grew as people needed her. Genes had little to do with family in Karen’s heart. If she could be there for you she was.

She was also a rescuer… Cats, plants, faded fabrics found at yard sales. She gave safe harbor and home to everything.

Our Karen was a lioness. The first night I met the woman who’d become one of my best friends it went like this….. She handed me flowers. Karen was not a fan of cut flowers but knew already that I was. She thanked me for helping Jon host the family & friend gathering. And then she said, “He cleaned his house for you and bought groceries.” It was subtle, it was conversational and I understood, in those words she was telling me how much I meant to her son and that I had better do my very best to never let him down. It was a pact made over Mexican Food.

What she’s given me in the time I’ve known her cannot be measured. Simple kindnesses and huge productions flow through my memory. Family times and moments between just the two of us comingle, making me smile even in these days of sadness.


The greatest gift she’s given me are her children. Dianne, with her unique and perceptive eye on the world. An eye she shares with a talent for painting that the whole world should see. Jennifer, with her gift to spread happiness and laughter all while realizing the cynicism that is the 21st century. Her gift for words is truly remarkable. Paul who expresses his creativity through some of the world’s most amazing food and furniture the likes of which you couldn’t find in the finest shops. And there’s my own marvelous husband. He looks at me every day with a love and trust that comes from watching his parents. He does not say can’t do anything, it isn’t in the genes.

These four marvelous people all embody the best qualities of their two parents. They foster and nurture, they love the outdoors and hours of television. They read and form opinions and they are fiercely loyal. They are my family, a gift from Armand and Karen more amazing than anything else I’ve received in my life.

So Karen Jordan, I will miss you and love you every day of my life but I know your legacy will continue to be the biggest source of joy one person can give to another. I am so happy I had you for the time I did.

Go forth and explore the wilderness with Armand, Chris, Lynn and Buzz. Sleep with Tino curled up by your head. And when you all gather around the fire at night remember two cans is your limit…

Ruth