She was born Aug. 22, 1960 in Peoria to James and Shirley Smith, Sr. She first married G. Michael Scholl on June 29, 1980 in Peoria. She later married Jeffrey Downard on Sep. 28, 1996 in Bartonville. He survives along with her mother, Shirley Smith of Peoria, three sons: Mark (Michelle) Flint of Peoria, Michael (Jolene) Scholl of Pembroke, KY, Ben Scholl of Peoria, one step-daughter, Sabrina Downard of the Netherlands, five grandchildren: Chloe Jean, Aidan Stuart, Cody M, Katelyn N. Claire A, one brother, James (Margaret) Smith of Deer Creek, and three sisters: Joy Walters of Morris, Luci (Dave) Sutter of Bartonville, and Tina (Jason) Redmond of Canton.
She was preceded in death by her father and three sisters: Cheryl, Betty, and Nola.
Kari had several jobs in the Peoria area including, Doc’s Mt. Hawley Inn in Peoria, Sterling Family Restaurant, Kenny Johnson Moving and Storage, and Allied Van Lines.
Kari loved life and family the most. A selfless person who helped everyone. A fighter and cancer survivor for 7 years. The family would like to thank the Illinois Cancer Center, Dr. Thomas, Dr. Gershner, and both Kari's.
Visitation will be Thursday, Jan. 3, 2019 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Remmert Funeral Home in East Peoria. Funeral services will be Friday Jan, 4, 2019 at 1 p.m. at the funeral home. Rev. Elaine Bolen will be officiating. Burial will be at Lutheran Cemetery, Peoria, IL.
Memorials may be made to the Illinois Cancer Center on Rt. 91 in Peoria.
You may view Kari’s obituary online at www.remmertfuneralhome.com
