Karel, a lifelong educator, lived for her family, her colleagues, her students, her friends, and her cats. She had a brilliant mind always thirsty to learn, a generous heart, and, above all, a passion for making others' lives better. She treasured moments surrounded by loved ones and always made sure everyone had plenty to eat.

Karel was born on March 29, 1940, in Klamath Falls, Oregon to Mac and Maurine Sinclair. The family moved to Prineville, Oregon shortly thereafter. She graduated from Crook County High School in 1958, went on to study education at Oregon State University, earning her Master's in 1966. As a freshman in high school, Karel met Jerry Pollard. They were married in 1962. In all, they enjoyed 71 years together full of respect, love, and adventure.

Karel taught business administration courses at Centennial High School, Mt. Hood Community College, and Portland State University for many years. She started her own consulting firm, Professional Update Seminars, in 1990, teaching companies throughout the Pacific Northwest communications and interpersonal relations skills until she retired in 2008. Most meaningful to her were the lifelong friendships she formed with her colleagues and learning she'd had a positive impact on a student's life.

Karel is survived by Jerry and their two children, Lisa and Lance, her daughter-in-law, Miko, her grandchildren, Audrey and Elliott, and her two sisters, Diane and Gayle.

A celebration of Karel's life will be held for family and friends at Ainsworth House in Oregon City on the afternoon of September 26. Please contact Lisa at lisakpollard@gmail.com for more information.

To honor Karel's memory, the family recommends you:
• Teach someone a new skill,
• Plant a tree or your favorite flowers,
• Adopt an abandoned cat,
• Take a class,
• Bake something delicious,
• Buy that piece of art you can't stop thinking about,
• Wear a chunky necklace or beautiful scarf,
• Finally take that bucket list trip, OR
• Donate to a scholarship fund or Alzheimer's research