Karen was born in Chicago on March 25, 1942, to Ethel and William Spoeri. She spent her early years growing up at the Mission Covenant Children's Home in Princeton, Illinois, where she later served on the board. She graduated from high school in 1960 from Blue Island High School. She lived in Germany, where she had her first loving son Michael. After marrying the love of her life Roger, her precious daughter Michelle arrived. Karen loved being a mom, and eight years after Michelle, her special order as she liked to say arrived. She called Roger PC, which is short for Prince Charming. Karen had many hobbies such as belly dancing, teaching aerobics, collecting dolls (she especially loved her Toni Dolls), becoming a CNA as well as getting her pilot's license. While doing all of these, she still loved being a mom, and eight years after PC Bret came along to liven up the family. Mom loved to travel, and one of her fondest memories with Bret is when they went to Germany. She also proudly attended his heavy metal concerts, where she let everyone know her baby was the bass player.
Karen loved her in-law kids, Bob, Carey, and Joanna. They helped make her a proud grandma of seven: Bobby, Jessi, Justin, Riley, Cole, Nathan, and Vincent. She had a special relationship with each one. She loved and spoiled them all equally, but they all know Justin is her favorite.
She was the loving wife of Roger, and over their 56 years, they have shared many precious moments. She loved their travels out West. Roger remembers one of her finest hours was when she flew back to Princeton. She was the pilot, and Roger, her copilot. When they landed, the Children's Home Staff was there to meet her and cheer on her accomplishments.
She was a sweet sister in law and a wonderful aunt to many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews. She was a big sister to Ellen and the late Bill Henning. She was a fabulous and dedicated friend to countless people. Karen had a way of lighting up and room and not just with her bling.
Karen was so proud of her life, full of family and friends. She knew that they were a gift from the Lord. It was Karen's faith that was a constant source of strength in good times and bad. When she found out she had cancer, she had a peace that could only come from God. Through everything, she said it is well with my soul.
We would like any gifts in memory of Karen to be sent to
The Ronald Sterner Scholarship Fund
c/o Covenant Children's Ministries
P.O. Box 518
Princeton, Il. 61356
In consideration of the safety of our guests and associates, Blake-Lamb Funeral Home will adhere to the current gathering restrictions in the state of Illinois, which allow 50 or fewer guests at services. Proper social distancing must be practiced and all guests will be required to wear facemasks at all times. Thank you for your cooperation.
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