Karen Ann Hamby

Karen Hamby passed on June 2, 2026, at the age of 71. Karen was born on August 26, 1954 in Chicago, IL to Harry and Marion Gruenewald. She attended local schools and graduated from St. Gregory High School. Karen married Michael Hamby at St. Benedict Catholic Church on June 9, 1973. She worked for many years at Walt Disney Magnet School until her retirement in 2013. Karen enjoyed spending time with her family and especially loved being a grandma to Grant.

She was preceded in death by, her parents and her sister, Kay.

Karen is survived by, her loving husband of 53 years, Mike. Her daughter, Melissa (Smitty) Hamby; her grandson, Grant; her brother, Gary (Joe) Gruenewald; three nieces, Laura (Mike) Lundgren, Liz (Chava) Gruenewald and Tori (Orabi) Gruenewald; her nephew, James (Katie) Phelps; brother-in-law, Tom Phelps as well as many great nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

Visitation will be held at Drake & Son Funeral Home (5303 North Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60625) on June 10, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.