Karen Jeanne Bockman

Karen Jeanne Bockman, 81, passed away very peacefully on November 25, 2024 from complications of a Glioblastoma tumor. She leaves behind her husband, David Bockman, of whom she devoted a faithful 58 years, son Michael Bockman, daughter Susan Groh, daughter in law Victoria Bockman, son in law Brian Groh, four grandchildren, Ellie Groh, Carson Groh, Evan Bockman, and Emma Bockman, and two sisters, Jan Strickland and Peggy McKie. Karen was born on March 24th, 1943 in Santa Monica, California to John and Reva McKie. She graduated from McLane High School in 1961. Karen attended Fresno State University where she graduated with a Bachelors of Arts degree and a teaching credential, and later achieved a Master's degree from Fresno Pacific University. David and Karen began their life together in Fresno while David taught at Fresno State University and Karen taught at Fort Miller Middle School. Later, in 1969, their son Michael was born. They moved to Greeley, Colorado in 1969 where David received his Doctorate from the University of Northern Colorado and taught there for two years. In 1971, their daughter Susan was born. In 1973, they moved from Greeley, Colorado to Ivanhoe, California, where Karen continued her teaching career at Ivanhoe Elementary School. She spent the majority of her teaching career at Ivanhoe School, teaching various grades from kindergarten through 6th grade. Karen always strived to give her very best as a teacher, through the many animated stories she would read, to the energy and excitement she displayed every day to her students. If you were fortunate enough to see her teach in the classroom, or to be a former student, you would have witnessed her dedication to providing an environment where every student succeeded. Karen's passion for her students was apparent each and every day. Karen then went back to school to become a bilingual teacher. She taught second language learners to read in Spanish, and then transitioned them over to read in English. She became a mentor teacher and was a very respected educator with Visalia Unified School District for 25 years. Karen and David attended several churches in Visalia throughout the years, starting at Grace Community Church from its founding until 2005. Gateway Church then became their church home. She participated in many ministries and bible studies. Karen was an avid gardener, quilter, and baker. She trained several of her horses and gave riding lessons to several children. Karen also loved driving her 1931 Model A Victoria, going fishing, hunting, and even won a California State trophy as a marksman. Above all else, Karen was passionate about God and was a devout Christian, always doing more for others than herself. We take great comfort in knowing she is with her Heavenly Father. Celebration of life service will be held at Gateway Church, 1100 S. Sowell in Visalia, on Saturday, December 21st at 11:00 AM with a reception to follow at 12:00 PM. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Karen Jeanne Bockman

March 24, 1943 - November 25, 2024