Karen Anne Seydel

Karen Anne Seydel, a longtime resident of Ukiah, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2026 at age 83. She was preceded in death by her Father and Mother.

The daughter of Rodney Allen Seydel and Lois Ruth Seydel, Karen was the sister of Elaine Seydel and Rodney A. “Rocky” Seydel Jr. (Meg and daughter Chloe). She attended Ukiah High School with the Class of 1961 and later attended the University of California, Davis. She also served in the United States Army.

Karen had a number of jobs during her life, including Adult Protective Services in Mendocino and Lake Counties, the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office and Animal Control. A lifelong dog lover and knowledgeable trainer, she provided dog-training instruction in the Ukiah area for many years and strongly supported humane treatment, rescue, and adoption. 

An active community member, Karen frequently wrote letters to the editor about animal welfare, local government, environmental concerns, water management, and public policy. She was an accomplished bagpipes player, performing at community and veterans’ events. She had an intense interest in local theater, serving as stage manager for numerous productions with the Ukiah Players Theatre and Willits Community Theatre, as well as several other regional theaters. 

Karen will be remembered for her compassion, service, independent spirit, and determination to stand up for what she believed was right.

A private gathering was held in her honor. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to an animal rescue organization, animal shelter, or other animal-welfare cause.