Karen Joan (Lillie) Phongluangtham, 57 passed away on Monday, July 22, 2013, from Pancreatic Cancer. She died peacefully in the presence of loved ones. Karen was born on Jan. 24, 1956 from modest beginnings near the Grays Harbor area of Western Washington. The second oldest of four siblings, Karen was both senior homecoming queen and valedictorian of the 1974 graduating class at Mary M. Knight High School. Soon after, she moved to Portland, where she had a very successful career in banking and real estate for more than 30 years. Karen enjoyed crafts, gardening and spending time with her family. She was also an accomplished world traveler; visiting places such as Australia, Greece, Ireland, China, Thailand, Italy, France and many others. Karen is survived by her parents, Joan and Tex; siblings, Richard, Peggy and Randy; children, Ben, Brian and Chau; and grandsons, Aydin and Lukas. Relatives and friends are invited to attend Karen’s memorial celebration at Parkrose Community United Church of Christ, 12505 NE Halsey St., Portland, on Saturday, Aug. 3, at 3 p.m