I created a GatheringUs memorial to celebrate the life of Karen Lutz. Collecting your stories and memories here will offer Karen's family and the rest of us great comfort. Thank you for contributing to this lasting memorial.
So I have know Karen for almost 20 years. We met on the first day of law school in 2000. I believe she was standing on the steps smoking a cigarette after our Contracts class! We have been through so many life events together, going to each others... moreSo I have know Karen for almost 20 years. We met on the first day of law school in 2000. I believe she was standing on the steps smoking a cigarette after our Contracts class! We have been through so many life events together, going to each others weddings, showers, babies, all of it. Not many people know, but during law school, Karen and I worked together as servers at the Winking Lizard. You want to talk about pure entertainment value, Karen being a server was hilarious and involved a lot of made up swear words. One story I want to share is of Karen and I sharing a hotel room in Columbus for the bar exam. I was jolted awake by Karen around 6 AM ironing her jeans before the exam. Anyone who knows her, knows that is quintessential Karen. Karen also recommended me for my job at OMHA and we have worked together as attorneys for 14 years. Karen was smart, beautiful, feisty, opinionated and straight forward and a truly good person who adored her sons and husband. You always knew where you stood with her. She was a dear friend, and I will always miss her. less
In January 2019 I had to start presenting at the monthly All-Hands meetings with Steve, which we do in front of the whole field office. I was always worried about how well my intro would go over, so I used to walk down to Karen's office and try my... moreIn January 2019 I had to start presenting at the monthly All-Hands meetings with Steve, which we do in front of the whole field office. I was always worried about how well my intro would go over, so I used to walk down to Karen's office and try my material out. If anyone was going to be completely honest with me, it was Karen. She LOVED giving me a hard time, and I loved it too. Sometimes I'd just get an eye roll or maybe a scoff, but every once in a while she'd chuckle softly and say "well that's f---ing dumb," and then we'd both start laughing. But the best was when I came up with something good and got her cackling. Karen had such a big laugh, the kind you can hear around the corner from your office with the door closed. It was such a beautiful and full sound. I will miss it and be forever grateful that I had a chance to make her laugh. less