Karin Northfield Crosby's Obituary
Karin Northfield Crosby was born on May 7, 1959, in the quaint town of Oskaloosa, Iowa, and left this world on December 23, 2025. She made a name for herself not just through her formidable intellect and medical prowess, but also through her infectious humor and zest for life.
Raised in a loving family, Karin, along with her siblings, learned the values of kindness and generosity. Her mother, Janet Northfield, instilled in her a passion for learning that would shape her journey through some of the most prestigious educational institutions in the nation. Karin’s academic journey kicked off at Edina West High School in Minnesota, where she was a standout gymnast, earning the title of Minnesota High School State Gymnastics Champion in 1977. Her brilliance in academics also earned her a spot as a National Merit Scholar that same year.
Following high school, Karin ventured to Stanford University, where she pursued a Bachelor of Science in Biology. Her curiosity didn’t stop there; she further honed her skills in sub-tidal ecology at Hopkins Marine Station. Karin then returned to the Midwest, earning her Doctor of Medicine from the University of Minnesota before completing her internship in Phoenix, Arizona, and her residency in Anesthesiology at UCLA. With that, she had successfully navigated the rigorous waters of medical training, passing the National Board of Examiners in 1987 and the American Board of Anesthesiology shortly thereafter.
For over 30 years, Karin practiced anesthesia in Southern California, gaining a reputation as both a skilled physician and a cherished colleague. After retiring in 2017, she traded the bustling life of Los Angeles for the serene shores of Dagsboro, Delaware, where she continued to make the most of life. In 2018, she married the love of her life, David Crosby, who became her partner in adventure and laughter.
Karin was the quintessential Renaissance woman; she loved to read, traversing a literary landscape that ranged from the heroic tales of Alexandre Dumas to the thrilling mysteries penned by John Sandford. She had a particular fondness for Shakespeare and classic ballet. Fluent in French and with a love for travel, Karin delighted in exploring the world, from the romantic streets of Paris to the vibrant cultures of Singapore and Thailand.
Beyond her professional achievements and travels, Karin was a devoted animal lover, doting on her beloved d’Artagnan JR (DJ), and she relished leisurely boating days in Rehoboth Bay aboard their vintage 1965 runabout, affectionately named “Boaty.”
Karin’s personality sparkled with energy, humor, and a generosity of spirit that lit up any room. She was known for her sharp wit and the ability to infuse laughter into everyday situations. To her family—her mother Janet, beloved husband David, sister Kathi, and her brother-in-law Karl, as well as her nephews Luke and Jeff, and niece Kelsey—Karin was an anchor, always there with words of encouragement or a playful jest.
Though she leaves behind an indelible mark on her family, friends, and patients, the laughter and love she shared will resonate long after her departure. Through her remarkable life journey and the connections she created, Karin Northfield Crosby remains eternally cherished, forever missed, and humorously remembered for her vivacity and spirit.
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