With respect and gratitude, we remember the life of Karen Jean Bonner, 82, of Davis, WV, who passed away on November 19, 2025, in Oakland, MD. Karen played a key role in guiding CVI in its early years and acted as Board President from 2001-2012.

Karen was dedicated to the community in Tucker County, WV. In addition to serving as an officer of CVI, Karen co-founded the Canaan Valley Landowners Association and later served as president of the Tucker County Planning Commission. She played a pivotal role as a volunteer leader in the establishment of the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge, working tirelessly to protect the sweeping wetlands and mountains she cherished. In the late 1990s, Karen received a prestigious EPA National Wetlands Award in honor of her work in getting the CVNWR established in 1994.

CVI former executive director Jenny Newland recalled working with her: “Karen was a quiet but powerful example of the value of civic engagement. She served on public boards and, of course, on the CVI board for many years through difficult, sometime divisive discussions, always with kindness and respect. She combined that with fierce resolve to stand up for efforts she believed were in the best interest of her community. She was a mentor and an example to many, including me.”

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