Kristine Karen Bua: Wife of Jerry West, Bio, Age, Family, Children and Job

Basketball legend Jerry West, 86, passed away at home with wife Karen Bua. Learn more about their family and incredible legacy.

The Los Angeles Clippers have shared the sad news that Jerry West, affectionately known as "Mr. Clutch," has peacefully passed away at the age of 86. He spent his final moments at home with his loving wife, Karen Bua, after an illustrious six-decade career in the world of basketball.

Born in Chelyan, West Virginia, Jerry West was the second youngest of six siblings, raised by a housewife and coal miner. His basketball journey began at East Bank High School and took off when he joined the Los Angeles Lakers in 1960, also representing the United States Olympic team. He achieved great success, including winning a championship with the Lakers in 1972, before transitioning to coaching in 1974. Throughout his career, Karen Bua stood by his side as his devoted wife.

Karen Bua West, born on June 16, 1963, has been a pillar of support for her husband, Jerry West, a former basketball player and executive. Their union took place on May 31, 1978, marking Jerry's second marriage and Karen's first. Jerry's first marriage to Martha Kane ended in divorce in 1976, but they had three sons together: Michael, David, and Mark. Karen, an educator, and Jerry split their time between La Quinta, California, and Hayward, San Francisco, with their family.

Karen, who is fifteen years younger than Jerry, worked as an assistant teacher in the Los Angeles Unified School District and as the State Controller's representative in California. The couple met when she was a cheerleader, and they shared a deep connection that lasted until Jerry's passing. Their sons, Jonnie and Ryan, have followed in their father's footsteps in the world of sports, with Jonnie excelling in basketball at West Virginia University and later working for the Golden State Warriors' G-League team.

Jerry West's legacy in the basketball world is unmatched, with the NBA acknowledging his impact on the sport by calling him a "basketball genius" and a defining figure in the league for over six decades. His remarkable career as a player, coach, and executive, combined with the unwavering support of his beloved wife Karen Bua, leaves an indelible mark on the history of the game.