Obituary: Karen Marie (Kerber) Johnson

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February 1, 1962 – March 17, 2026
Karen was born on February 1, 1962, in Denver, Colorado, to Ben and Joann Kerber. At the age of six, she moved with her family to Grand County, where the Kerbers owned and operated the Kerber Sinclair Gas Station and Auto Repair in Granby. Karen graduated from Middle Park High School and later established her own housekeeping business, serving many families in the Grand Lake and Granby communities.
On February 28, 1981, Karen married the love of her life, Keith Johnson. Together, they recently celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary and built a life rich in love, adventure, and shared passions.
Karen found great joy in the outdoors. She loved fishing, hunting, and exploring nature alongside Keith, family, and friends. In 2014, she achieved a remarkable milestone as the first woman in Colorado to complete the “Big 9” using a bow and arrow, successfully harvesting all nine of the state’s large game species. She took great pride in this accomplishment, as did all who knew her.
Although Karen and Keith did not have children of their own, she often remarked that they were meant to help raise other’s children. Over the years, they welcomed and cared for several young people, sharing their love of life and the outdoors with them.
Karen is survived by her devoted husband, Keith Johnson; several nieces and nephews; and many others whose lives she touched deeply.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Joann and Ben Kerber, and her brothers, Benny and Rick.
In honor of Karen’s love for her dogs, memorial contributions may be made to Grand County Pet Pals in lieu of flowers.
The family has no services planned at this time.

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