Karen Marie Umbaugh Monroe

Karen Marie Umbaugh Monroe was born to Sylvia and Samuel Umbaugh in Suffolk County, Babylon city New York on February 8, 1963, she passed away on May 6, 2023 in Bellingham WA at the age of 60 years old. She was preceded in death by her parents, Sam & Sylvia Umbaugh. Karen is survived by her devoted husband David Monroe whose strength and support during Karen’s fight with cancer was truly amazing! Brothers David Umbaugh (wife Karlene), Phillip Umbaugh (Wife Stacy), Norman Umbaugh (Wife Marlo), and Glenn Umbaugh (Wife Charmaine), her children Ryan Gehlen (wife Char), Jennifer Davis (husband Keith), Michael Gubser and Garret Gubser, grandchildren (Davin Davis, Lexi Gehlen, Saraine Gubser, and Jaimeson Gubser) and numerous nieces and nephews. All throughout Karen’s life she has shown a strength that has been truly exceptional. This may have been due to the fact that Karen was the only girl out of the 5 siblings. Karen passed away after a hard-fought battle with cancer.

A graveside service will be held at Enterprise Cemetery in Ferndale on Thursday, June 22nd at 1 o’clock followed by a Celebration of Life Gathering at Phillips 66 Neptune Park, 3897 Slater Rd. Ferndale WA. In appreciation of Karen’s love of color, the family is suggesting wearing bright colors rather than the traditional black if you wish. You are invited to celebrate a life well lived by and incredible woman, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend.

The family is deeply appreciative of the services provided by Whatcom Hospice House.

Karen will always be remembered and will live in our hearts forever.