Born on May 18, 1940, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Elmer and Cecilia (Keysor) Klimt. Karen graduated from Glennon High School in 1957. Shortly after, she met and married Nick Distefano, her loving husband of 66 years. Together, they raised four children.
Karen was the epitome of a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and “Memaw.” She was fiercely loyal, protective, and committed to her family and friends. Described as “feisty” by many who knew and loved her, she maintained that vibrant spirit until the end.
A sports enthusiast, Karen supported, attended, and actively participated in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren’s athletic events. She was an exceptional cook, who cherished passing on her love of cooking and family recipes and traditions to all generations. Renowned as one of the finest seamstresses in Kansas City, Karen designed and created clothing, costumes, and draperies for her family. Most notably, she lovingly designed, sewed, and hand-beaded her daughter Theresa’s wedding gown.
Karen’s creativity and resourcefulness knew no bounds. She could build, fix, or figure out just about anything, a gift she shared with many in her family. She found joy and solace at their lake house, a cherished place of solitude and reflection, as well as a beloved gathering spot for family and friends. Karen also had a passion for dance, often jitterbugging with her husband over the years, dancing at family weddings, and encouraging her children and grandchildren to share in her love of music and dance.
Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Cecilia (Keysor) Klimt; brothers and sisters-in-law, Harold Klimt (Sharon) and Jack Klimt (Ann); brother, Keith Klimt; father and mother-in-law, Joseph and Katherine Distefano; brothers-in-law, John Distefano, John Simone, Sal Cuccia; and sisters-in-law, Rose Esther Cuccia (Distefano) and Sylvia Simone (Distefano).
She is survived by her devoted husband of 66 years, Nick Distefano; children, Sam Distefano, Nick Distefano Jr., Angela Distefano (Joe Hovorka), and Theresa Steffen (Doug); grandchildren, Shera Spencer (Travis), Nichole Beier (Ryan), Michael Molle (Melissa), Tess Sorensen (Brett), Scout Distefano, and Joel Steffen; great-grandchildren, Nicky Joe Molle, Michael Molle Jr., Isaiah Molle, Jack Beier, Mari Molle, and Renlee Sorensen; brother-in-law, Carl Distefano (Trish); many nieces and nephews, extended family and friends.
Honorary pallbearers include Carl Distefano, Sam Distefano, Nick Distefano, Doug Steffen, Joe Hovorka, Michael Molle, and Joel Steffen.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at St. Anthony’s Senior Living, especially the compassionate caregivers in the Memory Care Unit and the staff of Catholic Community Hospice, who honored Karen with their loving care until the end. A special thank you is also extended to Father Anthony Pileggi for his friendship, support, and spiritual guidance.
A memorial gathering will be held on Monday, July 22, 2024, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at McGilley & Sheil Funeral Home, 11924 E 47th St, Kansas City, Missouri 64133. Followed with a rosary service and a memorial service.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Catholic Community Hospice Services https://catholiccommunityhealth.org/hospice or the Alzheimer’s Association of Kansas City Heart of America Chapter https://www.alz.org/kansascity.
