Karen VanCamp

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Karen Cushing Green VanCamp, who left this world on September 29, 2026, at the age of 70. Karen was born on October 10, 1955, to James Warren Cushing and Ila Wright Cushing Bolander.

Karen was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, who loved all kinds of animals, especially her dog, Alec. Karen graduated from Kearns High School, Class of 1974. Karen married Gary Green in 1976, although they later divorced they remained friends throughout Karen's life. Karen married Larry E. Van Camp in 1999, later divorced.

Growing up, Karen was an active participant in the 11th Ward Young Women's Basketball, Baseball, and Volleyball teams. She went to Kearns North Stake, Young Women's Camp each Summer, certifying in First Aid, Survival Skills and was proficient in Archery.

Karen was a gifted artist who expressed herself through pencil, charcoal and watercolor sketches of people and landscapes. Her sewing skills were remarkable. Karen not only made her own clothes but also added her unique touches to each piece, creating a wardrobe that was distinctly hers. She also loved music and expressed herself through dance.

Karen later got a Medical Coding Certification. But she was never someone who could just sit at a desk, so she got her CDL and drove a Semi truck. She also worked as a driver for Charter Buses; Airport Shuttles and her most favorite was working for Wasatch Transportation, driving Special Needs children to school.

Karen was devoted to her LDS calling as a Primary Teacher. She loved her primary children so much. She was always willing to lend a hand with a smile. Karen worked hard toward receiving her endowments in the temple, as a promise she made to her mother. And she fulfilled that promise. Karen had a gift! She was able to start conversations with anyone. She was our family's "Social Butterfly"! 

Although she faced many obstacles and struggled with addiction issues throughout her life, she finally became clean by going through Drug Court, combined with the strong support of her mother, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, her Sponsors, her family, and her friends.

Karen is survived by her beautiful daughter: Lexie M Van Camp Sage (Sean), grandchildren: Juniper, and Theodore "Theo"' sisters: Cheryl Carter (Shay); Mary Gilliand (Rod); Kevin Bolander (Jill); Delores Runau; Phyliss Wagner, and her nieces and nephews.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, her cherished son, Taylor James Cushing; her sisters: Paula Cushing Green, Eva Marne Lester; her brothers: Kevin Lynn Cushing, Warren James Cushing, James Leo Bolander Jr; her stepfather, James Leo Bolander; ex husband Larry E. Van Camp, and many other relatives.

Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved her and in the countless lives she touched with her kindness and grace. As we bid farewell to Karen, we celebrate a life with a contagious laugh, always smiling, and unforgettable memories.

She will be deeply missed.

A viewing will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., on October 8, 2026, at McDougal Funeral Home, 4330 South Redwood Road, Taylorsville, Utah. Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m., on Thursday, October 8, 2026, Midvale City Cemetery.