Karen Lythgoe Ashbaker

Karen was born on April 22, 1942 in Ogden, Utah. She was daughter to Pearl Lythgoe Rector and fathers Marvin James Lythgoe and Ernest Lawrence Rector. Sadly, Karen lost both of her dads early in life. She loved her parents dearly and maintained an especially strong and special bond with her mother, Pearl, until her passing in 1987.

Karen was a professional educator for over 40 years, specializing in teaching the elementary grades her entire career. Early on, she taught in a variety of schools and locations but eventually returned to her home of Ogden and spent the majority of her career with the Weber County School District.

 Karen loved music and was an accomplished piano player and singer, spending many years playing at Stonehenge Rehabilitation facility church services and singing as a member of Kaye Starr Heninger’s Promise Choir. She especially loved musical theater, the golden era movie musicals she grew up with remained her favorites. Karen was a member of the historical preservation society Daughters of Utah Pioneers for over 20 years. Karen also loved travel, enriching her life with experiences in many countries and continents too numerous to mention.

 Her family was the most important thing to Karen, both immediate and extended. She was always there to support them, her presence a safe refuge for those seeking understanding and solace. In turn, her brothers, sister, nieces, nephews, and sons were there for her in times of need at a level enviable by any measure.

 Karen is survived by her two sons, Lloyd and Marvin; as well as her siblings, Bill Lythgoe, Darrell Rector, Marilyn Lawrence and their families; and the family of her late brother, Marvin James Lythgoe. She also leaves behind four grandchildren, Bailey, Sara, Alex, and Ethan.

 A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, January 23, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. at Washington Terrace 12th Ward, 125 East 5350 South, Washington Terrace. All who loved her are invited to say good-bye. 

In lieu of flowers, please donate to your choice of causes listed under the Philanthropies Department of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

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