January 13, 1952 – May 1, 2024

Karen Arbaugh, passed away in her home on May 1 surrounded by her loving family. She was 72.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Cary and Mary Wright, and her son-in-law, Manuel Machado.

She is survived by her husband of fifty-three years, Troy; their children and their spouses: Jennifer; James and Nicole; John and Emily; Thomas and Stephanie; their nine grandchildren: Cory, Alexa, Eden, Michael, Sierra, Elias, Alexandrina, Estin, and Sage; her three sisters: Linda, Connie, and Diane; and many nieces and nephews.

Karen, a self-described “Navy brat,” enjoyed traveling and learning about different people and places. She was an avid reader and had an insatiable thirst for history. Karen was passionate about family and preserving legacy. She compiled volumes of genealogical documents and traced her and her husband’s lineage back hundreds of years to their European roots. She was steadfastly patriotic and civically engaged throughout her life. Karen has been a part of the Nevada County community for more than fifty years. She was proud to own and operate her bookkeeping business and served many years as a dispatcher for the Sheriff’s office. Karen loved the Nevada County fair and would share her prize-winning vegetables, salsas, canned goods, and cross stitch with the community, earning dozens of ribbons every year. Karen’s greatest love of all was her husband, Troy. Together, they built a life filled with adventure, curiosity, and cherished memories. As a mother, Karen was a source of unconditional love and unwavering support. She encouraged all of her children to pursue higher education and knowledge. As a grandmother, she was all about trips to see the world. She believed in the magic of Disneyland, knowing one’s roots, and being true to thine self.

There will be a private service for friends and family. The family asks that In lieu of flowers please support: Girl Scouts of Central California, In Memory of Karen Arbaugh, Northern Mines Treasurer, 6601 Elvas Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95819

Or you may donate online to: Girl Scouts Heart of Central California- Karen Arbaugh Fund