Karon Lou Peterson

Karon Lou Ultican Peterson, beloved wife, a bonus mother, a mother in-love, a grandma, a great grandma, a sister, an aunt, a cousin, and a cherished friend. Karon’s love for family, friends, life, travel, and jeep racing was unparalleled. Karon's unwavering dedication to her family will forever be etched in our hearts, ensuring her legacy lives on in us.

Born with an indomitable spirit, Karon approached life with an open heart and contagious enthusiasm that inspired everyone around her. Whether she was exploring new destinations with Keith, conquering drag racing courses, or simply engaging in everyday conversations, her joyful laugh and genuine care made every moment special.

Karon was born in Chico California and soon after moved to Beatty Nevada. She spent her teen years in Red Bluff California where she graduated from high school. Shortly after high school she moved to Tacoma with her sisters Marti, Lois, and Norma along with their families. She attended college to become a computer programmer. Despite facing numerous challenges and biases, Karon persevered and excelled in her high-tech banking career, breaking barriers along the way. Karon's journey in high-tech began in the 1980s, when the field was heavily dominated by men. She faced skepticism and doubters who believed that women were not capable of excelling in such technical roles. However, in classic Karon style, she refused to let these stereotypes define her and worked tirelessly to prove her abilities.

Karon's passion for jeep racing, particularly in the exhilarating world of drag racing, provided her with an outlet where she truly found her element, challenging herself and sometimes others! The adrenaline rush and the thrill of competing fueled her spirit, showcasing her fierce determination and love for adventure. Through the roar of the engines and the cheers of the crowd, Karon found solace and fulfillment.

Above all, Karon's deep love for her family defined her existence. As a devoted wife, she showered Keith with unwavering support, understanding, and affection. Her cherished role as a bonus mother to Brian, Kevin and Chris was a testament to her selflessness and genuine love for those in her life. As a sister, aunt, cousin, and friend Karon's presence brought comfort and a sense of belonging to her immediate and extended family where she wholeheartedly, guided others with kindness, compassion, and laughter. She was a pillar of strength and a source of constant support, always ready with a listening ear and a kind word. Karon's friendships were cherished and treasured. She had a gift for making others feel valued and loved, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of calling her a friend.

Karon found immense joy in being a grandma and a great grandma always taking the time to create lasting memories with her loved ones. Her love and devotion knew no bounds, and she leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth that will continue to guide and inspire future generations.

Karon's shining spirit and infectious laughter brought joy and light to every room she entered. Not only will Karon be remembered for her vivacity, but also for her culinary prowess. Her cowboy beans, roquefort dressing, and pickled cucumbers became legendary, leaving a lasting impression on the taste buds of everyone fortunate enough to enjoy them. Gathering around the table to savor her flavorful creations created countless treasured memories that will forever warm our hearts.

While our hearts ache at the loss of such an incredible woman, we find solace in the memories we shared with Karon. We will always remember her zest for life, her adventurous spirit, and her endless love for her family. In our hearts, Karon's shining spirit and infections laughter will forever live on. Her legacy of love, resilience, and dedication serves as an inspiration to us all. A reminder to embrace each day with love, kindness, and an adventurous spirit, just as she did. May she find eternal peace in the realms above, knowing that her laughter and love will forever echo within us.

Karon is survived by her husband Keith Peterson. Her sons Brian (Amy) Peterson, Kevin (Christine) Peterson, and Chris (Lyn) Peterson. Her grandkids Sara (Doug) Harris, Josh Peterson, Max Martin, Keith W. Peterson, Austin (Sienna) Peterson, Dylan Peterson, Kia Ahlstrom, and Christian Peterson. Her great grandkids which she absolutely adored Wyatt Harris, Cayden Peterson, Emmett Peterson, and Deegan Peterson. She is also survived by sisters Betty Lee Ultican Ross, Martha ‘Marti’ Ultican Krotz, and many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family.

She is preceded in death by her mother Bessie DeLong Ultican, her father Leon Lamore Ultican, and her sisters Lois Ultican Spear and Norma (Larry) Ultican Hamilton. Her niece Dara Hamilton, nephew Michael Spear, niece Nancy Ross Swiger, and her great granddaughter McKenzie Harris.

Cheers to a life well lived Karon, rest in peace knowing you will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

To honor Karon's incredible life, a celebration of her journey will be held on February 17th from 1pm to 5pm at 16067 232nd. St. Ct. East, Graham, WA 98338. This joyous occasion will be a testament to the incredible relationships she forged and the lasting impact she made on all our lives. We invite friends and family to join us in sharing stories, reliving cherished moments, echoing with laughter, and rejoicing through the power of music. Karon’s favorite color was purple, so please consider wearing purple or something bright and fun in her memory.

If you are unable to attend, please feel free to email a Karon story to: [email protected] and it will be added to a memory board being displayed at the ceremony.