Ingrid Elizabeth Karnikis | Passages

April 6, 1936 – July 11, 2025

Ingrid was born to Aino and John Taylor and grew up in Ojai, California. She passed away peacefully in Mt. Vernon, WA at Skagit Valley Hospital in the presence of family. Ingrid faced many health challenges in her lifetime but always maintained a positive and joyful outlook on life. Her husband George lovingly cared for her as she journeyed through Parkinson’s disease and progressive blindness. Ingrid met death with a resolve and grace that those present will not soon forget.

Ingrid’s childhood was spent amongst the majestic oaks and rocky creeks of the Ojai Valley. She reveled in nature’s wonders and began reading and writing at an early age. Exploring her spiritual world through nature and language became a passion that sustained her throughout her life. Ingrid touched the hearts of many friends and relatives with her poetry. She wrote her first poem, “Smoke Fairies” when she was 10 years old. Ingrid was named Poet Laureate by her sisters of the Madrona Club. She found inspiration for her writing in nature and the so-called ordinary happenings of life. Morning Song, a collection of Ingrid’s poems, was published in 2018. A second book is in the works.

Ingrid was a Scot and a Finn in heart and soul. She recited many of the Scottish poets and knew its history by heart. Literature and music were Ingrid’s constant companions. She played the piano for many years and played the bass drum with the Orcas Community Band. Jean Sibelius’ Finlandia was one of her favorite pieces, along with many other classical composers, folk musicians and the music of Greece. Ingrid had the opportunity to visit Greece many times. She loved the islands, the historic ruins (especially the Parthenon), but above all she loved the culture and the generous spirit of the Greek people.

On July 21st, 1965, Ingrid married her soulmate, George Karnikis. They spent some years in the San Francisco Bay area before moving to Orcas Island in 1972. She worked at Orcas Medical Center and OPALCO. Ingrid was a member of the Emmanual Episcopal Church, Madrona Club, Fidelis, Westsound Community Club and The Pinneo Road Poetry Group. Ingrid believed in the fundamental rights and freedoms of all people. She supported many groups that advocated for human rights and peace, but it was through her everyday interactions with her family, friends and community that she had the most impact.

Ingrid was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband of 60 years, George Karnikis, Eastsound, WA; her brother Jon Taylor, Sointula BC, Canada, daughter Nina (Ken) Mirante, Mt. Vernon WA; son Syd (Sherry) Karnikis, Kasilof AK; son Karolos (Monika) Karnikis, Edmonds WA; daughter Elvi (Tello) Hernandez, Guanajuato, Mexico. She is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

Donations may be made to the Orcas Community Band, or any organization that promotes peace among nations.

A celebration of life will take place on September 6, 2025, at Emmanual Episcopal Church, Eastsound WA. Service from 1 to 2 p.m. Gather for coffee, tea and cookies from 2-4 pm.

Arrangements by the Neptune Society.