Karen Wallace

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Karen was raised in the Catholic faith, which remained an important foundation throughout her life. She attended the University of Illinois, where she developed the knowledge and determination that would serve her throughout her life and career.

As the wife of a United States Coast Guard serviceman, Karen embraced a life of adventure and service, living in many places around the world, including New York, Thailand, Hawaii, England, and Virginia and finally settling in Charlotte NC. Wherever life took her, Karen created a welcoming home and formed lasting friendships through her warmth, kindness, and resilience.

Karen dedicated most of her professional life to Hoest Celanese as an administrative assistant and then a corp tax accountant where she was a valued and respected member of the teams she worked with. She was known for her strong work ethic, organizational skills, and friendly presence.

Above all else, Karen's greatest joy was her family. She was a loving mother to her daughter, Kristine Wallace McGlade, and her son, Mark Wallace. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Aidan McGlade and Sophie McGlade, whose accomplishments and happiness brought her endless pride and joy.

Karen is survived by her beloved sister, Kristine Holland; her daughter, Kristine Wallace McGlade; her son, Mark Wallace; her grandson, Aidan McGlade; her granddaughter, Sophie McGlade.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John & Joan Katilius and her brother Johnny Katilius.

Karen will be remembered for her strong faith, adventurous spirit, unwavering dedication to her family, and her ability to make a home wherever life led her. Her legacy lives on through the family she loved so dearly and the many lives she touched along the way.

May she rest in peace. ✝️