Obituaries

Im so sorry to here that your gone!!! You will be missed!!!! Love you & miss you!!!!

Karen was such a warm, and caring friend. I will cherish her friendship...

A good friend & mentor! Karen was dear to me when I lived in Madison. I tried to be there for her when Brian died & little Betsy was born. We laughed and cried. Karen was quirky & so darn funny. Much love to Madelyn and Betsy. I can't imagine how much you will miss her. Love, Sheri Straus-Norgard

-Until the Chill Has Gone Away- i feel a shift occurring deep within my bones a pause in my reality to bear witness to another's pain so similar to what was once my own allowing space and a safe place to land is not always all that is needed we cannot stop the death of things nor the departure of one thing as another emerges; perhaps instead we can change our fear into courage by holding gently our own timid sadness, until the chill has gone away... Farewell my friend suzanne rankin 11.2022

I first met Karen in high school at LaFollette. She and I didn't share many classes together sShe was maybe more talented and gifted than I!) but we did an after school club where speakers would come in to discuss current events. Even then, Karen seemed super smart with a different sense of humor. At that same time I believe Karen and Missy forged a lifelong friendship. I lost track of her until one day in the 90s when my middle school daughter came home and asked "Dad, did you have a friend named Karen in high school?" Uh yeah, but weird you should ask! Turned out that Karen was our neighbor in a catty corner, backyard sort of way. So over many years have enjoyed some fence-line conversations and running into Karen while walking the neighborhood, always enjoying her droll yet insightful takes on current events and our families. We were never super close but I will still miss her a lot. My condolences to Betsy and Maddie especially and who knows, maybe we will be neighbors too! She talked about you gals all the time (and almost all was good!) Bob Entwistle

Karen was a caring soul who looked out for the interests of those with disabilities. She championed them and was tenacious in her advocacy, not letting bureaucracy deter her. Karen loved deeply and served others admirably. She was a coworker and a friend. I will miss her. - Doug Hunt

Betsy and Madelyn..... I was good friends with your mom we worked together in the Madison public School system. She was also a good friend of mine, we shared lots of laughter and naughtiness together. She talked about you girls all the time. I am in shock and will miss talking to her. She was a blessing in my life!

Working with Karen was a learning experience. Very sorry for your loss.

Karen is a unique spirit. We shared many students as she truly cared for them professionally. We became friends first through the student we share, then as our humor and walks intertwined. Not long ago I saw her while walking and enjoyed her smile and laughs! Karen always spoke admiringly of her beautiful daughters, and she was a trusting person, whom I could always share my thoughts and feelings. So sorry for her passing, and thoughts and prayers of comfort to those she loved.

Betsey and Madelyn, I am so sorry for your loss. I worked with your mom at the Community Living Alliance around 1998 - 2000. She spoke so often and so lovingly of both of you. I loved working with Karen--she was a warm and wonderful work partner who was widely respected for her skills and loved for her kindness, empathy, and terrific sense of humor. I will always cherish the time I spent with her. My best to you and her extended family and friends--I hope you have many wonderful memories that bring you comfort and joy. Betty Kaiser

I miss you & love you Karen!!!! Rest in heavenly peace!!!!!

Karen and I used to live and work together as temps at WebCrafters and at UW-Hospitals. At that time, she was young and always moving forward. She knew what she wanted and would be glad to tell if you got in her way. It was a pleasure knowing her and my deepest condolences on your loss.

I've known Karen for a long time, and have some very clear memories of her, which I will continue to cherish. "One of a kind" is usually a cliche - but not when describing Karen. We enjoyed many conversations ranging over such a wide range of topics that it sometimes made my head hurt. I think she liked making my head hurt. She knew how to listen and delve, yet always with that "Karen" humor that words are inadequate to describe. I wish I could have one more of those conversations. I will miss her immensely. And her hugs.

Hi Betsy and Madelyn... I am so sorry to hear about your Mom. She will always be a great spirit and that lives on in you two. This is Randy your friendly landscaper from the past. I always had a great time working with you and your Mom in your yard. To me it was always fun and not work. I still have the bandana hanging on my truck mirror that you made for me Betsy. When I look at it I think of you all. I will always carry memories of you guys and you know that she is very proud of both of you. Talk about her often because she will be listening and smiling. My deepest sympathies to all your family. Randy