Karen Parfitt

Karen A. Parfitt, 74, Green Bay, passed away on Friday, February 16, 2018. She was born February 26, 1943 in Appleton, WI to the late Ernest and Margaret (Becher) Parfitt.

Karen graduated from Appleton Senior High School in 1961, Lawrence University in 1965 and achieved her Master’s Degree in Medical Technology from Northwest University, Chicago. Karen’s first job was at University of Wisconsin Hospital, but soon after began her lifelong career at the American Red Cross in Madison. Later transferring to Green Bay facility where she was the Laboratory Director and remained there until she retired. Even after retiring, Karen continued to volunteer for Red Cross blood drives.

Karen never married but enjoyed the company of family and friends. Karen was active in many organizations. She achieved the rank of Worthy High Priestess of the Nazarene Shrine #8 in 1982. She held dual membership in both Green Bay and Madison shrines. She was active in the Rebekah organization and a member of Beta Sigma Phi sorority. She also participated in Learning in Retirement classes at UWGB and was active in Bethel Evangelical Lutheran Church ministries.

Karen loved to travel. She traveled the Caribbean, Mexico, Israel and Germany. She was fluent in German and got by in Spanish.

Karen loved cats. She was the proud mom to several in her lifetime. Her last was TJ. She also kept statues and pictures of cats.

Karen donated to many causes. She was proud that she donated over 13 gallons of blood to the American Red Cross. She supported WPT, WPR, American Lung Association, American Diabetes Association and many others.

Karen was proceeded in death by her parents and a brother, Douglas Parfitt. She is survived by her nephew, James (Cindy) Parfitt and many grand nieces and nephews, as well as many friends.

Visitation will be held at Lyndahl Funeral Home, 1350 Lombardi Avenue, Green Bay, on Tuesday, February 20, 2018, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, with a White Shrine service at 7:00 pm. Visitation will continue on Wednesday, February 21, at Bethel Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1350 Bond St, Green Bay, from 12:00 pm until the time of funeral service at 1:00 pm with Rev. Brian Staude officiating. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos may be shared with Karen’s family on her tribute page at www.lyndahl.com.   

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