In Loving Memory

Karan Helen Vokaty

Wrapped in the love of her friends and one of her beautiful quilts, Karin Helen Vokaty, age 80, passed away peacefully following a series of health complications on November 29, 2022. Karin was born on February 12, 1942 to John and Evelyn (Ginger) Yock in Chicago, Illinois.

Throughout her younger years, Karin lived in the mid-west including Illinois, and Iowa, graduating from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. She moved to Palo Alto, California, working at Sullivan Language School. Karin was proficient in multiple languages, and would go on to become the president of the school.

While living in California, Karin met and married the love of her life, Dwight Vokaty. Looking for a change of pace, the two moved to Darrington, Washington. Here, she served for several years as an administrator on a hospital board. As time would go on, Karin and Dwight had an opportunity for a career change and found their way to Eastern Washington, living in Colville for a time, then Prescott, Arizona, before relocating to a piece of property on the Chewelah Golf Course. The pair spent several years together boating, hosting parties and enjoying the company of their friends whenever possible. Although she had long given up her motorcycle, Karin still had some great stories to share about adventures on the back of her pink Harley, fringed throttle covers and all.

After Dwight's passing on February 23, 2008, Karin would relocate to a new residence in downtown Chewelah, which she absolutely loved. Karin found herself within walking distance to all that Chewelah had to offer, spending many days connecting with community members at yoga and exercise classes, sipping wine at ChewVino, or simply visiting with friends. Karin enjoyed many hobbies and activities throughout her life, and she always shared that enjoyment with others. She was a skilled artist, and her quilts were quite beautiful, winning many prizes at quilt shows. She was so proud when people offered to buy them, and she donated many to local charities and fundraisers. Karin's favorite holiday by far was Halloween, and the celebrations she and Dwight hosted throughout the years were nothing short of legendary. Guests were greeted by elaborate decorations and the hosts in detailed costumes. Her love for decorating wasn't just limited to the holidays, Karin took great pride in how thoughtfully and elegantly her home was designed, utilizing timeless elements to make her visions a reality.

Karin was preceded in death by her parents, John and Evelyn Yock, and her husband, Dwight Vokaty. She is survived by her sister-in-law, Mo Vokaty, her dear friends, Heather and Tim Dollar, and countless other friends throughout the Chewelah area, as well as across the globe. All who knew her will miss her vibrant personality and the love she shared with them.

A celebration of Karin's life is being planned and will be announced at a later date. Please visit the on-line memorial and sign the guestbook at www.danekasfuneralchapel.com. Danekas Funeral Chapel and Crematory is entrusted with the arrangements.