Karen Sue Willemse

Karen Sue Willemse passed away on November 24, 2020 at 12:45 pm at Legend Healthcare and Rehabilitation in Greenville, Texas.  She was 72 years old.    

Karen was born September 2, 1948 in Dallas, Texas to Joseph and Charlotte Bridewell.  She was the youngest of three girls.   

On September 20, 1958, at the age of 10, she made the most important decision of her life when she symbolized her dedication to Jehovah God, by water baptism, as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. 

During her high school years, she enjoyed singing, drama, and participated in musicals.  She and others had the privilege to be interviewed about Jehovah’s Witnesses on KLIF radio in Dallas.

In 1965, at a District Convention for Jehovah’s Witnesses, in Lubbock, Texas, she met Hans Willemse, a tall Canadian visiting from London, Ontario.  Hans moved to Texas, with one of his friends, in January of 1966.  Hans and Karen married on December 17, 1966.

Karen spent her life sharing with others the Good News of God’s Kingdom and the wonderful future it will bring. This Kingdom hope sustained her during her long illness with Multiple Sclerosis.  She was a wonderful teacher and displayed the pioneer spirit throughout her life. 

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, her two sisters, and her son, Sean Allen Willemse.  She is survived by her husband, Hans; daughter and son-in-law, Amy & Marcus Compton; grandson and his wife, Cole & Gabriella Compton; and granddaughter, Kyndall Compton.  She will be greatly missed by family and friends.  

A Memorial Service for Karen will be held on December 5, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. via Zoom.