Karen A. Mcauliffe

Karen Anderson McAuliffe died peacefully at her home in Sebastopol on Thursday Oct. 8, 2015. She is survived by her loving husband David, her daughter Paige Eldredge, and her stepdaughter Siobhan McAuliffe. Born in Iowa 76 years ago and raised in Minnesota, she was a true Midwesterner. Her roots occasionally came out as she lapsed into "Minnesotan speak" (a la Fargo). In 1959 Karen went to San Francisco to be a beatnik and fell in love with the city. She had a true wanderlust, living as a Manhattanite for a while in the early 60's as well as spending significant time in Germany, Maryland, Georgia, and Venice, California. She finally settled in her beloved San Francisco. She was a graduate from the University of Minnesota, taught fine arts (claiming she was known as mean Mrs. Thomas), worked as a model and was a national Kelly Girl of the Month. Years later she became a lawyer, graduating from Loyola University in Los Angeles. After practicing law for a few years she became a banker eventually becoming head of the Trust Department of Barclays Bank. Karen left the bank to start two successful businesses, remaining active in one of them until her retirement in 2014. She was a founding member and past president of the Professional Fiduciary Association of California, spoke before many professional groups, and authored papers that appeared in publications of the Continuing Education of the Bar. She was happy that her daughter took over her business and is continuing her legacy. Karen was a fine artist, interior designer, writer, shopper, and house renovator. She was able to showcase her skills when she built her dream house in 2000 where many a happy gathering took place. Karen was an admired and respected writer and has had several of her stories published. She wrote her memoir before she died, which is a great source of comfort and entertainment to her family and friends. Karen was an active member of the community, was Treasurer of the Redwood Writers Group, past President of the Sebastopol Newcomers Club and participated as well in other clubs and organizations. She was a grateful member of Alcoholics Anonymous, was very giving to her friends and impacted many people's lives. She will be missed. A memorial to celebrate her life will be scheduled for a later date.