Karen May Garretson's Obituary
Karen May Garretson, 66, of Bowie Maryland passed away unexpectedly on May 26,2025. Karen was born April 17, 1959 to Charles Earl Garretson and Betty Jane Garretson.
Karen was a sister, aunt, and loving friend. She had a huge heart known for her kind, loving, caring and humorous personality. She will live in our hearts forever.
Karen was a founding member of Bowie CLAW, with a mission to implement an animal shelter in Bowie so that local pets could be quickly reunited with their owners, without the need to go through Prince George’s County Animal Control.
• Pet Food Bank
Sensing the need to help pets with their families during temporary financial difficulties, she was instrumental in establishing, and managing for many years, the Pet Food Bank in Bowie.
• Blanket Drive
Over the years, Karen worked and volunteered with the county shelter. She oversaw the annual Blanket Drive in the Fall of the year to support the shelter’s need to provide warmth to our furry friends.
Karen is survived by her sister Susan (Ray) Schroth and her brother Gary (Leslie) West.
Karen was a beloved Aunt to Justin, Stacie, Samantha, Jessie, Michael, April, Garrett and Sommer.
Karen is also survived by close longtime friends who are also considered family Mary Williams, Carolyn Petrillo, George Gonzales, Marty, Savannah and Blake. As well as Leonard, Michelle and Jacob Williams.
Karen was preceded in death by her father Charles Earl Garretson and her mother Betty Jane Garretson and her sisters Wendy Erskine and Sherie Buchanan. As well as her dear friend Pam Chapman.
Visitation will be at Robert E. Evans 16000 Annapolis Road Bowie Maryland on Sunday June 8th from 2pm to 4pm and 6pm to 8pm.
A funeral service will be held at Robert E. Evans on Monday June 9th at 11am, followed by interment at Trinity Memorial Gardens 3221 Mattawoman Beantown Road, Waldorf Maryland.
What’s your fondest memory of Karen?
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Share a story where Karen's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Karen you’ll never forget.
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