Karen "Beach" Tarbell, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2026, in Denver, Colorado, at the age of 72. Her life was marked by a deep commitment to family, faith, and a joyful spirit that touched all who knew her.

Born on August 13, 1953, Karen was the daughter of Emilie and Howard Beacham. From an early age, Karen demonstrated a passion for learning and leadership that would define her life's work.

Karen graduated from Fayetteville Manlius High School in Central New York before continuing her education at Ohio Wesleyan University. She later earned advanced degrees from University of Northern Colorado as she continued a distinguished career in education. Over the years, she served as a math teacher, assistant principal, and principal in the Douglas County School District and later at Littleton Public Schools. Her dedication to students and staff alike earned her widespread respect and admiration. In recognition of her outstanding contributions to education, she was honored as the 2013 Douglas County School District Administrator of the Year.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Karen was known for her enthusiastic and thoughtful nature. Her sense of humor and confidence made her a natural leader and cherished friend. Whether mentoring colleagues or guiding students through challenging times, Karen’s cheerful leadership left a lasting impression on countless lives.

Karen's faith was central to her life. She maintained a strong relationship with Jesus Christ and was an active member of Cherry Hills Community Church including serving as an Elder. Her spiritual devotion provided strength and purpose throughout her journey.

Karen is survived by her husband Jim Tarbell, with whom she shared more than four decades of marriage. Together, they raised their son TJ Tarbell. Karen found immense joy in their grandchildren, James and Kendall along with her daughter-in-law Michelle Tarbell and granddogs Milo and Aspen. Karen’s devotion to her grandchildren was a defining part of her later years. She was a constant and loving presence in their daily routines, eagerly volunteering to shuttle them to school, sports practices, church, and countless other activities. For James and Kendall, these everyday journeys with their “Beachie” became cherished adventures, filled with laughter, encouragement, and the gentle wisdom Karen so naturally shared. Her boundless energy and genuine enthusiasm made her an irreplaceable part of their lives and left an indelible mark on their hearts.

Karen is also survived by her mother, Emilie Beacham, her siblings Scott (Sharon), Terry (Frauke), Michael (Eileen), Jane Barber (Dick), and Dan (Kim); sister-in-law Ann Tarbell; daughter-in-law Michelle Tarbell; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and colleagues.

She was preceded in death by her father Howard Beacham; grandparents Agnes and Howard Beacham and Alice and Wilfred Smith; in-laws Ted, Taffy, and Alice Tarbell.

A celebration of Karen’s life will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday February 12, 2026 at Cherry Hills Community Church in the Dixon Chapel in Highlands Ranch, Colorado.