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Karen L. (Brock) Behlen
March 8, 1944 August 6, 2010
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With deep sadness we inform you of the passing from life of Karen Behlen from injuries sustained in a recent car accident.   Her loving family was by her side.  

Karen’s life was filled with the love of her family, to whom she was devoted.  Many joyous times were spent with family and friends.  She enjoyed husband Rick’s wine making hobby and vegetable garden, always providing meaningful input.  Days with “her girls” were full of laughter, fun trips, lunches and pedicures, and many good stories to always treasure.  She loved unconditionally, always there to help and support, and gave selflessly. Karen knew the simple things are truly most important in life, and never took moments with family for granted.  She was happiest giving, helping and loving the people in her life.   She enjoyed the beauty of her garden, surrounded by flowers and all things beautiful in her home. She had a talent for home decoration and loved to share by helping friends and family decorate their own homes in style

She leaves behind her beloved family far too soon, husband Rick Behlen; children Maria Gikas, Lori Gikas, Bonnie (Paul) Lewis, and Patrick Behlen; Grandchildren Gina (Ryan) McCay, Jennifer (Adam) Heether, Justin Snelling, and Alana Snelling; Adored Great Grandchild Landon McCay; Brother Gary (Betty) Brock; sister Joan Denton, and countless extended family and dear friends  treasured her dearly.  

Karen is preceded in death by her parents, Howard and Gladys Brock.  

She was born in Palo Alto and moved to Manteca as a young girl.  She raised her family in Ripon, and for the last 15 years has called Lockeford home with Rick, hosting many evenings with neighborhood friends. Karen enjoyed working over 30 years alongside her dear friend Joe Crivello as Office Manager for Crivello Body shop for 23 years, and Chase Chevrolet in previous years.  Every day was an adventure with Joe.     

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 14, at 2:30 p.m. at the Japanese Garden at Micke Grove Regional Park in Lodi.  The park is located at 11793 N. Micke Grove Road.  Please contact family members for entry passes to the park, otherwise an entry fee of $5 wiill be charged by the park to enjoy this lovely location.   Please join us in celebrating her life and to share memories of how this amazing woman touched your life

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to Community Hospice.  

The family would like to thank the medical staff  in ICU at Memorial Hospital Modesto, for the excellent care that Karen received during her time there.