Karen Ann Prins
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Karen Ann Prins, 62, of Ashland, MO passed peacefully to Heaven on January 8, 2014 at her home, surrounded by family and friends. She fought a courageous battle against cancer with dignity and grace. Visitation will be at Olivet Christian Church, 1991 South Olivet Rd, Columbia at 11 AM on Saturday January 11. The funeral service will follow at 1PM. Interment will be held at noon on Sunday January 12 at Allen Cemetery, Raymondville, MO.
Born in Grand Rapids, MI, Karen was raised in New Jersey, graduating from Eastern Christian High School in 1969. She received her BA from Trinity Christian College outside of Chicago, IL in 1973 and subsequently worked in their development office. She helped to successfully relocate a dozen Vietnamese refugees from Saigon to the US in 1975, a forecast of her life of service to others. After moving to Canada in 1978, she worked as an assistant manager at the Toronto Women’s Bookstore for 5 years. She relocated to Missouri in 1986 to marry the love of her life, Leon Steinberg of Raymondville and Columbia. They built their life together in Ashland, raising a loving daughter, Maija, and most recently a grandson Rhys Steinberg, to whom she was devoted. She was instrumental in their family real estate business. Karen worked for 15 years on staff at the Missouri State House and Senate in Jefferson City, retiring in 2012. For the past 5 years, Karen volunteered as a teacher of English as a Secondary Language, both in Columbia and Jefferson City.
Karen’s passions were quilting, reading books, playing piano and caring for her family. She was a dedicated member of multiple nature societies and social causes. Her generosity and loyalty were boundless and she developed a multitude of friendships from all walks of life. She was actively involved in her community and church life and was a woman of great faith in God.
Karen is preceded in death by her father Robert Prins. In addition to her husband, daughter and grandson, she is survived by her mother Alice Wisse, sisters Marie Prins (Ed Hagedorn), Gail Prins (Bob Vogelzang) and Gwen DeJong (Dave), brother Keith Prins (Mary), stepsister, Sara Yff-Prins and Esther Yff-Prins as well as 10 nieces & nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation, 5526 West 13400 South, #510, Salt Lake City, UT 84096 (cholangiocarcinomafoundation.org).
Visits: 5
Leon and Maija,
We are heartbroken to learn of Karen’s passing. Have wonderful memories of you all when we had our horses borded at your property in Ashland years ago. I have often thought of you both throughout the years. I cannot believe Maija is a mother herself now. The last time we saw her she was an infant . Karen must have just loved watching her grow and I bet she is a wonderful, thoughtful, intellegent and passionate woman just like her Mom. Leon and Maija, we will say lots of prayers in your direction.
In Faith, Sarah McIntosh and family
Leon,my friend, I am truly sorry to hear that Karen is no longer with us. Although, we have not seen each other in a while, I feel it was only last week that we had a conversation. After selling our business we moved to Liberty. I miss our times to share. I too,remember when your daughter was born and the time and labor that you and Karen worked together to build a happy family.
You are in my thoughts,
John
Leon,
So sorry to hear of Karen’s passing. Hopefully I’ll see you at one of the tournaments this year.
Take care.
Richard
Dearest Leon, Maija and Baby Rhys. We are sorry to hear of your loss. So glad we came by to spend some time with the family recently. We both remember Karen’s hugs. We know you take refuge in God’s love and strength. May each day bring you comfort with great memories to celebrate a life that she lived rich in service and her love of other’s and her love of God. Love from Lilly and Gerald Godbey
Dear Leon, Maija, and Baby Rhys,
We are very sorry to hear of your loss. Karen was always a wonderful person and we have very fond memories of your family and ours. We spent many dinners and holidays together. We shall never forget those wonderul times. My parents did meet Karen at the Capitol when we happened to be visiting and I am glad they got a chance to meet such a caring person. I am sorry we did not get a chance to see Karen before her passing. As each day passes, hopefully it will be easier for all of you. If you ever need anything, do not hesitate to call.
With Love, Maria, Jeff and Michelle Adams
Maija and family, We are heartbroken to hear of your loss. I know your mum fought hard to spend as much time as possible with all of you…especially Rhys. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you as you celebrate her life and love for others. XOXO
Leon and Maija,
We are so sorry to hear of Karen’s passing. She was a force to be reckon with and put up a good fight.
Please know we are keeping all of you in our thoughts and prayers.
Leon and Maija,
I was so sorry to hear that Karen had finally lost her battle with cancer. It was so wonderful to see her at the library and she always put on a brave face. I know she loves you two and Ryhs more than she was possibly able to articulate. Her loss will leave a hole in this community. Your family will remain in my prayers as you go through this difficult time.
Dearest Leon and Family, I am so very sorry for your loss. Karen was one of the most genuinely loving people that I’ve been blessed to know. I pray that your life will continue to be surrounded by her love as you face the future without her. Love and many prayers, Karon.
Karen was a truly unique and wonderful woman. I had the pleasure of sharing an office with her and found her to be so exceptional in so many ways. Her quick sense of humor, and warm heart were eclipsed only by the grace she displayed each and every day. Leon, Maija and Rhys, my thoughts are with you, and my prayers constant, that you will be able to endure this loss, and hold precious all your memories of this remarkable woman. I know I will. Love to you all.
Dear Leon and Maija,
I am saddened hearing of the passing of Karen. I was a classmate of hers at EC for many years. I an encouraged by the fact that she knew our Lord Jesus and is with Him in her heavenly home and that she was courageous in her battle, walking with the Lord.
May God be near both of you and her mom Alice in these days. May you draw great comfort knowing that you will see her again in heaven someday. I Thess. 4:13-18 and Isaiah 41:10 are comforting passages to read along with Psalm 23. May you find peace in His Word and encouragement and may God give you grace to bear this.
In Christ, Ron and Linda
Dear family of Karen,
It is very sad to hear of Karen’s passing. She was a classmate of mine in Eastern Chr. I haven’t seen her since graduation, but she left a memory of her perseverance and fortitude. She had been in a severe auto accident in our senior year, she was determined to graduate with us and she did…I can only imagine the fight she gave during her recent illness. Knowing that she loved the Lord and is resting in Him now is a comfort. My sincere sympathies to you all. regards, Fenna