Karen Anne (Herrman) Olson-Knowles, age 69, died in her home surrounded by family in Arvada, Colorado, on July 31, 2026. Born Karen Anne Herrman in 1956, she was a 1975 graduate of Great Bend High School, in Kansas. She earned an associate's degree in Business Administration from Barton County Community College in 1986. Karen was a member of Barton’s synchronized swim team and enjoyed playing softball.

Karen and her son, Cade Olson, moved to Denver, Colorado in 1989, where she met Joseph (Joe) Knowles, whom she married in 1990.

In Denver, she worked as a real estate property manager and in administrative roles for environmental companies.

Ms. Olson-Knowles was an active member of Jaycees community service organization, an avid wildlife and nature photographer, and a prolific photo-craft hobbyist. She enjoyed both domestic and international travel. Karen traveled throughout the United States in a recreational vehicle.

Karen is survived by her husband, Joe, and their son, Cade; five siblings: Dana (Virgil) Konda of Spearville, KS; Floyd (Susie) Herrman, Overland Park, KS; Patricia Miller, Wichita, KS; Janet (John) Mullins, Dripping Springs, TX; Michelle (Todd) Haetten, Melbourne, FL; two nephews, four nieces, cousins and many, many friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Francis Herrman and Georgiana Herrman, and her brother, Dennis Herrman.

A Celebration of Life will take place at Morningside Manor in Arvada on Saturday, October 17 at 11 a.m.; light refreshments will be served. Guests are invited to wear colorful or floral attire to honor Karen's vibrant personality and her love of nature. In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial donation to Nature Conservancy.