Karen Bushman passed away peacefully on Friday, Oct. 16, 2026, in her Joseph City home surrounded by her children.
Karen was born on May 5, 1942, in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, to Frank and Mae Mish. Her childhood was spent in Mesa. She married Floyd Bushman of Joseph City on April 19, 1963. She is survived by a sister, five children and their spouses, 21 grandchildren, and 26 great-grandchildren.
Preceding her in death are her parents, two siblings, her husband Floyd, and a daughter (Laura).
Karen was known throughout the community as a compassionate and loving person, and mother. She will always be known and remembered as someone to count on, someone who would always put others first and someone willing to drop everything if special care or attention was needed.
Karen held many influential callings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Serving others in and out of the Church was easy for her. She held charity in her heart for all she came in contact with. Through her callings in the Young Women and Relief Society, her love and compassion reached many. Her love of her Savior grew tremendously as she prepared and taught many lessons, relying on the many hours of study, pondering, and listening to the Spirit. She is currently very peaceful in His presence.
In addition to nurturing six active kids, she made time for community work and cared for several foster children. She created the First Step Workshop in Holbrook, a place where adults with developmental disabilities could work, associate and thrive. It was the main priority for her time away from family. Under her direction, it became a mainstay in the area, offering incredible life opportunities to many. She was recognized by the State of Arizona and received an award for her accomplishments. In 2010, the Joseph City Hall of Fame honored her for her years of work providing services for special needs children and adults.
Visitation will be from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 24, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Joseph City. Funeral service to follow at 11 a.m., with interment in Joseph City Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations for the First Step Workshop via Venmo@David-Bushman
