Karen Sue Leslie (Kent) was born in Ceres, CA on October 3, 1959 to Hartzell Kent and Jane Kent. She entered peacefully into rest on December 7, 2018 in Boise, ID at age 59. She was raised in Oakdale, went to Milnes Elementary and was a member of Oakdale High’s graduating class of 1977. She also studied at Modesto Junior College. As a young girl she was a cheerleader and loved to go to the county fair. As many kids in Oakdale do, Karen went on to compete in some high school rodeos, specifically the team roping. She also spent time in the arena team penning.
Many people remember her as the owner of Leslie’s Tack & Leather with her husband in Turlock, CA. They also lived in Riverbank for a time which Karen always referred to as “the good ol’ days.” She worked for Bank of America for several years and also for Dr. Richard Cercle in Modesto. She loved to be outside and absolutely loved to fish. Karen was a loving mother of two daughters, Tanya Leslie and Kimber Whorton (Leslie). She is the Grandmother of Breanna and Austin Pereira, and most recently to her four-month-old grandson, Reed. She had a smile that brightened up a room and a heart that was kind and generous. She loved a good time and loved to laugh. There is no doubt Heaven is a brighter place because she is there. She will be greatly missed but will be forever in our hearts.
Karen is survived by her parents, Hartzell (Kim) Kent of Marsing, ID, and Jane Kent of Oakdale, CA. Her daughter, Kimber Whorton (Chad) of Chelsea, OK. Her brother, Kevin Kent of Oakdale, CA. Her grandchildren, Breanna Pereira, Austin Pereira, and Reed Whorton. Multiple nieces and nephews and her companion, Brian Neal, of Oakdale, CA. She is preceded in death by her daughter, Tanya, and her brother, Douglas Kent.
There will be a Celebration of Life to honor Karen on February 16, 2019 at 2 p.m. at the H-B Banquet Room in Oakdale, CA. We look forward to celebrating her beautiful smile.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.dakanfuneralchapel.com.
The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader
Dec. 26, 2018
