Karen L. Biever, 65, of Rockford, IL passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her loving family on March 10, 2022. She was born on July 5, 1956 in Juneau, Alaska to Walter and Norma (Halverson) Nelson. Karen graduated from East High School and went on to graduate Summa Cum Laude with her Bachelor’s Degree from Concordia University. Karen married Tim Biever Sr. on April 12th, 1980 and together they raised three wonderful children. She worked at the Rockford Park District for over 26 years until her retirement and served as a Trustee on the North Park Water Board of Trustees for over 20 years. Karen was an avid Chicago Bears fan, even when it hurt. She was passionate about politics, equality, and human rights. Karen was an experienced beach bum and often enjoyed live blues music with a cold beer on ice. She was the biggest animal lover, and a friend to all with a smile and a laugh so contagious you just couldn’t help yourself. More than anything, Karen loved spending time with her family and being the best Hamma to her grandkids, they were her whole world. She will be forever missed by all that knew and loved her.
Karen is survived by her children; Tim Biever Jr., Callie (Brian) Sullivan and Karissa Biever; her grandchildren, Cody Sullivan, John Sandberg and Gavin Sullivan; her twin sister, Kristen (Ron) Butler and her brother, Steve (Cynthia) Nelson; her mother-in-law, Betty Biever; brother-in-law, Ted Biever Jr.; her sisters-in-law, Bonnie (Rick) Herrli, Barbara Reilly and Patti Pace; her best friend of 60 years, Lynn Pemberton; her significant other, Anthony Gardona; her beloved Great Dane, Bear, and so many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Tim; her parents, Walter and Norma; her father-in-law, Ted Biever Sr.; her brothers, Craig Nelson and Tom Nelson; her sister-in-law Sandy Nelson; and her nephews, Curt & Troy Biever.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Serenity Hospice and Home for their compassionate care of Karen.
Memorial Service for Karen will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 24, 2022 at Sunset Funeral Home. 8800 N. Alpine Rd., Machesney Park, IL 61115. Visitation from 1:00 p.m. until time of service. Inurnment to follow in Sunset Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Karen’s name to Serenity Hospice and Home or to an Animal Shelter of your choice.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sunsetfhmemgardens.com for the Biever family.
