On July 26th, 2013, after a brief illness, musician, educator, director and actor, Karen Jean Rice of Poulsbo, WA passed away. She is survived by her brother, David Knutson and her two sons, Bryon Rice and Michael Rice.

Karen was born June 25th in Platteville, WI to Clarence Knutson and Geraldine Knutson. She attended Hillsboro Union High School and ultimately received a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon.

Karen spent a large portion of her life as a leader in Kitsap County performing arts bringing joy to audiences and courage and education to performers and musicians.

The primary figure in lifting Bainbridge Light Opera Association to new heights as Bainbridge Performing Arts, Karen worked tirelessly to bring professional practices and a community rooted spirit that has served BPA and other community based arts organizations for decades.

Karen also served as Education Director of OPERA America in Washington DC, the international service organization for all the opera companies in the world. She was part of a team of educators and professional musicians, creating curricula designed to help young people discover the power of opera through hands-on experience

She later served as Manager and Education Coordinator of Bainbridge Chorale, chief archivist of BPA, and director of Side By Side (a singing group).

The facts of Karen’s career, however, tell a lesser story than the tale of her impact. Students nurtured under Karen’s tutelage are now theater people, musicians, filmmakers and artists world-wide.

As the Author and Educator Robert McAllister said, “She was my mentor, friend, fellow actor and a woman who taught me to sing with an open mouth and a full heart....”

Karen Jean Rice was the teacher you wanted to please, the performer you want to see again, and truly, a woman for all seasons. She will be missed.

A memorial celebration of Karen’s life will be held at The Eagle Harbor Congregational Church, 105 Winslow Way W., Bainbridge Is., WA at 1 pm on Sunday AUGUST 18TH. All are invited to attend and share a story about Karen.

Condolences, stories, video and pictures may be left on Karen Rice’s online guest book at www.karenjeanrice.info Please visit her there and take a moment and celebrate Karen by adding a story, picture or video of Karen for others to view.