Washington - Karen Riel, 86, of Brinnon, Washington, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025.

Born January 28, 1939, in Everett, Washington, to George and Gladys Bachelder. Karen graduated from Everett High School in 1957, earned her BA in English and Education from Seattle University in 1961. She taught English before starting her family.

In 1962, she married Richard Charles Riel, together they raised four children in Kent, Washington. Karen earned her MA in Values from San Francisco Theological Seminary in 1987 and devoted 22 years to Catholic Community Services, directing programs serving the homeless throughout King County. After retiring, she dedicated 20 years to COAST in Jefferson County as founding member and former chairwoman, helping grow it from a small winter shelter into a vital community lifeline.

In 1995, Dick and Karen built their dream home in Brinnon on Hood Canal. An accomplished gardener and adventurous traveler, Karen visited six countries in her final three years, with highlights including returning to Rome in 2024 after first visiting in 1979, and touring Monet's Gardens in Giverny, France.

She is survived by her children, Elizabeth (David) Corlett, Molly (Kevin) McCarthy, Mark Riel, and Eric (Linda) Riel; three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren and dozens of nieces and nephews. Karen is predeceased by her parents; her brother, Michael and Sharyl Bachelder and nephew Brian Bachelder.

Rosary Nov 20, 6 p.m., Washelli (Bothell); Mass Nov 21, 11:30 a.m., St. Theresa's (Federal Way); burial Gethsemane. Gifts to OlyCAP or World Central Kitchen. More details at dignitymemorial.com