Karen Lee Wilson, 85, passed away February 12, 2026, at her home in Fort Wayne, IN. She was born on October 14, 1940, in Fort Wayne, IN, the daughter of the late Theodore and Eve Sanderson. She graduated from Central High School and earned her bachelor’s degree from Purdue University Fort Wayne.
Karen was a Case Worker for 15 years for the Division of Family and Children Services for the state of Indiana. She raised her large family with love, laughter, and warmth. Karen enjoyed reading, working on puzzles, and spending time with her family. She cherished her doggies, Dusty, Luke, and Lucas. Karen was a devoted Christian and member of Emmanuel Lutheran church, downtown Fort Wayne.
She is survived by her children, Ron D. (Sue) Wilson, Dawn C. Strange, Patty “PJ” Wilson, Richie D. Wilson, Chad M. Wilson, and her “Fort Wayne son” Mike Lay. She is also survived by her close granddaughters and caregivers, Brandy Wilson and Jennifer Catalan; special great-granddaughters and caregivers, Eliana Catalan and Emilee Wilson; close granddaughter, Tracy Cook; and great-granddaughters, Marissa, Madison, and McKenna Cook. Karen was blessed with over 100 grand, great-grand and great-great-grandchildren.
Karen was preceded in death by her husband, George Robert Wilson on February 12, 2023; son, Robert L. Wilson; brother, Ramon Sanderson; as well as sisters, Jackie Sprunger, Rochelle Murphy, and Sharon Osborne.
Funeral service will be 11:00 am Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 917 W. Jefferson Boulevard, Fort Wayne, IN, 46802, with visitation one hour prior. Visitation is also from 5:00 to 8:00 pm on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at D.O. McComb and Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Avenue, Fort Wayne, IN. Committal and burial will be at Lindenwood Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana.
