Karen Marie Miksich, 80, passed away peacefully on Friday March 27, 2026, with her family by her side. Karen was born in Lancaster, OH to Virginia and Ralph Huggins. She began her professional career in the utility industry in Minneapolis where she met her future husband, John. Her “Super Mom” career began shortly after with the birth of three sons, John, Bill and Mike.
Her love for her family was immense. Her love of books and reading came in second. Karen merged her passion for reading with her love for children by embarking on a 20+ year career as a volunteer at the Sacred Heart Grade School Library in West Des Moines.
Throughout her life Karen was a pillar of peace, and her love for and trust in God were her hallmarks.
The family wishes to thank Mercy Hospital ICU and Kavanagh House for their great care of Karen in her final days.
She is survived by her loving family: John, her husband of 52 years; John Jr. (Kim); Bill (Jensie); Mike (Lisa); grandchildren Mike Jr. and Liliana; and her twin sister Sharon Rowley (Steve).
Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday March 31, 2026, at McLaren's Resthaven Chapel, 801 19th Street, West Des Moines, IA 50265. A Rosary will be held at 6:30 pm. Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 1:00 pm at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 1627 Grand Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50265 with burial following at Resthaven Cemetery. Family will greet friends one hour prior to the funeral mass. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Sacred Heart Grade School Library or the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry.
