Obituary

Karolyn Schwartz, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, peacefully departed on Sunday, February 25, 2024, at the age of 85. Karolyn was born on April 21st, 1938 to Irving and Hertha Knutsen in Bellingham, WA. She leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness that will forever be remembered.

Karolyn’s journey began in Bellingham, where she attended Bellingham High School and later pursued her education at the University of Washington before graduating from Western Washington University. A beacon of knowledge and inspiration, Karolyn dedicated 26 years of her life as a beloved teacher at Fairhaven Middle School until her retirement in 2001. Her passion for education touched the lives of countless students, leaving an indelible mark on the community she served.

Throughout her life, Karolyn found solace and strength in her faith as a lifelong member of Central Lutheran Church. Her unwavering devotion and infectious laughter brought light to every gathering, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Karolyn is preceded in death by her parents, Irving and Hertha Knutsen, her beloved husband, Richard Schwartz, her sister Virgie Hartford, her brother Rick Knutsen, and her sister Marci Scott. She is survived by her son, Gregory Schwartz, and wife Miriam; daughter Jennifer Monson and husband Jason; daughter Suzanne Lurie and husband Glenn; her adored grandchildren Julia and Samantha Schwartz, Jake and Jillian Monson, Mitch Lurie and wife Raelyn, and Sydney Lurie. She is also survived by her brother-in-law Harold Scott, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

A remembrance service to celebrate Karolyn’s remarkable life will be held at Moles Bayview Chapel, 2465 Lakeway Drive, on Monday, March 25, 2024, at 11:30 am. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorials be made to the Bellingham Public Schools Foundation at Bellinghamschoolsfoundation.org.