William “Bill” Stuart Karro died peacefully at home with family on Dec. 16 after multiple bouts with cancer. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Patti, their three children, Jason (Tracy), Jared and Matthew (Mary,) and three grandchildren, Bryan, Lilah and Wyatt. In addition, he leaves behind four siblings: Rob, Loren (Dan), Terry, Rick (Rita) and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
After meeting Patti in Chicago, they settled down in Kalamazoo, Michigan, where they would raise their three children. Despite traveling frequently for work, he was always involved in their activities, including scouting, camping, hiking, fishing, skiing and soccer, even if it meant showing up at soccer games in a three-piece suit, arriving straight from the airport. After 16 years in Kalamazoo, he would move the family to Vancouver, Washington, for four years and then Greensboro, North Carolina, where he finished out his final six years with Ciba.
There was never any doubt as to where Bill wanted to retire after 36 years as chemical engineer. After retirement, Bill and Patti’s first adventure was at Hidden Lakes in the Pasayten Wilderness, followed by two volunteer stints at Maho Beach in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Then followed six more years at Hidden Lakes with a shift to Harts Pass in 2007 through September of this year. Harts Pass was his happy place, where he enjoyed sharing his knowledge of the area with PCT hikers and other visitors. He also enjoyed talking with and learning from Slate Creek miners.
He thoroughly enjoyed visiting with his three sons and grandchildren, always planning, and anticipating their visits. Cooking and baking with Lilah and Wyatt were a pure joy for him. Watching cooking shows or Life Below Zero with them also brought him pleasure, as did telling stories.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A remembrance will be planned for some time in 2022. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Aero Methow Rescue Service, Methow At Home, Palliative Care Services, Lookout Coalition or Methow Hospice Care Services.
