Karen Venhuizen

Karen Louise Klein Venhuizen, 71, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, passed away July 27, 2013, at Life Care Center of Idaho Falls of lung cancer. Karen was born October 24, 1941, in Pella, Iowa, to Henry A. Klein and Esther DeWit Klein. She attended public school in Pella, later graduating from Central College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Choral Music. Karen married James R. “Jim” Venhuizen on June 1, 1963, at First Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa. She lived in Pella for twenty-one years before moving to Lincoln, Nebraska. After four years there, they moved to Idaho Falls, Idaho, where she spent the last forty-six years of her life. Karen was a homemaker, mother, and grandmother. She was a volunteer at her church, served on the Presbyterian Preschool Board, and was a Cub Scout Den Mother. Karen was an active member of the Idaho Falls First Presbyterian Church. She helped with their financial records, and was the Clerk of Session for 15 years. She sang with the choir, and performed as a soprano soloist for numerous weddings and funerals. She also participated in local operas and choral groups. She enjoyed her grandchildren, singing, sewing, flower gardening, and AJ’s love. Karen is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, Jim Venhuizen of Idaho Falls; Son, Von Alan (Susan) Venhuizen of Lubbock, TX; two grandsons, Nicklas James Venhuizen of Lubbock, TX; Kuyper Alan Venhuizen of Lubbock, TX; Sister, Eileen (David) VandenBaard of Altoona, IA; Brother-in-law, Kenneth (Nancy) Venhuizen of Morrison, IL; Sister-in-law, Jane (George) Beckman of Bushnell, IL; Sister-in-law, Mary Venhuizen of Idaho Falls, ID. She was preceded in death by her parents. The family will meet with friends from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, August 1, 2013, at Wood Funeral Home, 273 North Ridge Avenue, and again from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. Friday, August 2, 2013, at Idaho Falls First Presbyterian Church, 325 Elm Street. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday at the church, with Reverend Dr. Dennis Falasco officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given in Karen’s name to the American Cancer Society, First Presbyterian Church Steps Project, Guardians of the Children – South Plains Chapter [PMB #180, 5815 82nd Street, #145, Lubbock, TX 79424], or the charity of your choice.

Funeral Services -- Friday

11:00 a.m. ,Friday, August 2, 2013 First Presbyterian Church 325 Elm Street Idaho Falls, ID 83402 Notes: The family will meet with friends from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, August 1, 2013, at Wood Funeral Home, 273 North Ridge Avenue, and again from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. Friday, August 2, 2013, at Idaho Falls First Presbyterian Church, 325 Elm Street.