Karen Frances Loible Nichols

Karen Frances Loible Nichols, cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on Aug. 19, 2025, at home in Stevens County, Wash., surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Dubuque, Iowa, Karen carried a vibrant spirit, creativity, and love wherever life took her. She was the daughter of Henry Joseph Loible VI and Emily Frances Ansel Loible Stalder Schmitt. In her youth, Karen was a cheerleader and flag twirler at Narbonne High School, and she shared a lifelong bond with her sister, Jan, born just 13 months apart. As young girls, they loved roller skating with their best friend Marcy Capanale, creating joyful memories that lasted a lifetime.

On July 4, 1963, she married Allan Nichols, a devoted fireman and bomb technician, who made her feel like a queen every day. Together, they shared a life full of adventure, laughter, and deep devotion, building memories that spanned decades and crossed countless miles.

Karen’s heart was as creative as it was generous. She was a gifted artist, painting in oils and watercolors, crafting beaded jewelry and crystal angel earrings, and sewing delightful dresses and matching family apparel. Her handmade treasures, shared at craft fairs and among loved ones, reflected her joy and artistry.

She treasured family adventures, from camping and fishing trips with her sister-in-law Marcia and brother-in-law Gary to NASCAR outings and annual trips to Hawaii to visit her beloved grandchildren. Her laughter, warmth, and curiosity left an imprint on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Karen was deeply committed to community, participating in Rotary, Soroptimist, and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. After Allan’s passing, she was honored with a lifetime membership in the Elks, a testament to the love and respect she earned throughout her life.

She is survived by her daughter Angela (Mike) Wethered; grandsons Timothy and Johnathon; siblings Tangi Holbrook (Bruce), Janice Farnham, Jesse Loible, Henry J. Loible VI, Suzanne Loible; brother-in-law Gary Nichols; sister-in-law and best friend Marcia Nichols; and lifelong best friend Marcy Spidel Osborne Capanale.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Allan Lee Nichols and her parents Henry Joseph Loible V and Emily Frances Ansel Loible Stalder Schmitt.

Karen’s legacy of love, creativity, adventure, and generosity will continue to shine through the family and friends who carry her memory in their hearts.