Karen Stone

Karen Stone, beloved mother, teacher, friend, and lifelong lover of animals, books, travel, and a good sweet treat, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 24, 2026. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories and more than a few good stories.

Karen was born August 7, 1943, in Chestnut, Illinois, to Harold and Hulda (Krause) Schaffenacker. She graduated from East Peoria Community High School in 1961, and went on to Eureka College, where she earned her undergraduate degree in education in 1965, and was a proud member of Delta Delta Pi sorority. Later in life, she continued her education and earned her master’s degree in teaching from Illinois State University.

On April 8, 1967, Karen married Keith Stone, beginning a life and family together that would bring her two children, Mindy and Barry.

Teaching was one of Karen’s greatest passions. She spent 24 years teaching at East Peoria Community High School, from 1985 until 2009. She loved learning, loved her students, and took great pride in the many young lives she touched throughout her career.

Karen was witty until the very end, with a quick sense of humor and a personality that could light up a room. She loved animals, reading, teaching, and traveling. She also had a well-earned appreciation for sweets and the occasional martini—because life, in Karen’s view, was meant to be enjoyed.

She is survived by her daughter, Mindy (Mike Richardson) Stone of Estes Park, Colorado; her son, Barry Stone of Peoria, Illinois; and her beloved granddogs, who brought her great joy. She is also survived by her cherished lifelong friends, affectionately known as “the Big Girls,” friendships that began in grade school and high school and remained strong throughout all the years that followed.

Karen’s life was defined not only by what she accomplished, but by the people, animals, adventures, books, laughter, and little pleasures she loved along the way. She will be remembered for her intelligence, humor, independence, generosity, and unmistakable wit.

Her goodbye has been a long one. She is now at peace, reunited with those she loved, and perhaps enjoying a good book and a sweet treat.

She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Visitation will take place on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Remmert Funeral Home from 9:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place privately at Swan Lake Memory Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Pet Association of Estes Park or Raiders Who Care at East Peoria Community High School. Condolences and memories may be shared through RemmertFuneralHome.com