Karen Lee Hassler, 60, a resident of Sedro-Woolley, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday July 22, 2004 in Bridgeport, Washington.

She was born on January 21, 1944 in San Diego, California, the daughter of Don & Elma (Stange) Gunsauls. She made her home in San Diego until 1953 when her family moved to the Philippines. In 1956 they moved to Oak Harbor, where Karen completed her education.

May 5, 1962, she was united in marriage to Joseph Hassler in Oak Harbor and there they made their home and raised their family.

For more than 20 years Karen worked as a veterinary assistant for Dr. Wambler in Oak Harbor. In 1993 Karen and Joe moved to Sedro-Woolley.

Karen enjoyed animals of all kinds, but had a special fondness for cats. She also enjoyed camping but her greatest love was her family, especially her grandchildren.

Karen is survived by her husband of 42 years, Joseph, at the family home in Sedro-Woolley. Her son and daughter-in-law, Steven and Tami Hassler of Spokane, and her daughter and son-in-law, Stacey and Denny Todd of Mount Vernon; her grandchildren, Tayler and Syndey Todd and Caleb and Courtney Hassler; her mother, Elma Gunsauls of Burlington; three brothers and their wives, Tom & Maurine Gunsauls of Burlington, Don and Elvie Gunsauls of Tacoma and Jay and Jane Gunsauls of Sacramento, Calif., one sister, Joann Thomas of Oak Harbor and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Don Gunsauls.

The family suggests memorials be made to North Puget Oncology, 1415 E. Kincaid, Mount Vernon, 98273.

Visitation will be at Lemley Chapel from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday, July 28.

A life celebration will be held Saturday July 31, 2004 at 3 p.m., at Lemley Chapel in Sedro-Woolley.

Share memories of Karen and sign the online guest register at www.lemleychapel.com