Karen Ruth Brethouwer (Krueger)

Karen Ruth Krueger Brethouwer of Montrose passed away December 28, 2014. At the time of her death Karen was 79 years old.  Karen Ruth Krueger was born July 6, 1935 in Lincoln, Nebraska. She was the only child of Herbert August Krueger and Alice Ruth Brehm. Her father passed away in August 1963 and her mother in January 1984. Karen spent her childhood in Lincoln, Nebraska and graduated from Lincoln High School class of 1953. She then attended St. Elizabeth Hospital School for Nurses in Lincoln where she graduated as a Registered Nurse (RN) in 1957.

October 31, 1957, Karen married Dr. Norman Robert Brethouwer in Lincoln. At the time of her passing, Karen and Dr. Bob had been married 57 years. Dr. Bob Brethouwer, 82, survives his wife and is still practicing medicine in Montrose. Tracy Ann Brethouwer, 56, was born in Lincoln, Nebraska; Todd Avery Brethouwer, 53, was born in Kansas City, Missouri; and Norman Robert Brethouwer, 44, was born in Montrose. She is also survived by daughters-in-law Casey Linscott-Brethouwer (Todd) and Robyn Funk (Rob).  Although Karen did not have any grandchildren, she was fond of her grand-cats and grand-dogs. Members of this special group include: Timmy Sue, Hercules, Dylan, Bentley, Tosca, MacGyver, and Diesel.

Karen had a passion for classical music and opera. Her passion took her to the major opera houses of the world including those in San Francisco, Chicago, Denver, New York City, and Munich, Germany. During her years, Karen was an avid collector of classical music and opera recordings, memorabilia, programs, and ticket stubs. Her house was filled with music and she loved to discuss all things musical. In addition, Karen had a passion for museums and had a specific interest in the art and history of ancient Egypt.

During their years of marriage, Karen and Dr. Bob traveled the country to attend medical conferences. These trips often included one, two, or all three of their children. Travel was a large part of Karen’s life and she was especially fond of a cruise to Alaska taken with her husband.

A celebration of life will be January 2, 2015 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Crippin Funeral Home Chapel in Montrose, Colorado. Donations can be made in her name to the Saint Elizabeth Foundation, 6850 L. Street, Suite 100, Lincoln, Nebraska 68510-9942. Karen was part of the graduating class of 1957.  Arrangements are under the care of Crippin Funeral Home & Crematory, Montrose, Colorado.