Karen dedicated 34 years of her professional life to Osco Drug, where she worked as a cosmetician. Though legally blind from birth, she managed her condition quietly and independently, overcoming the daily challenges of her disability to build a successful life and career.
Outside of her career, Karen was an avid NASCAR fan and attended many races over the years. She had a strong passion for music, her favorite was Bob Seger and Loved Casey Kasem's Top 40 countdown and Dick Clark. She loved dancing and travel, enjoying numerous trips throughout her life, her favorite was to Ireland. She discovered books on tape and became an avid “reader” learning a lot over the years.
Karen was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers, Bob and Danny, and her sister, Patty Lee.
She is survived by her daughter, Lisa Padilla; her son, Patrick; her grandsons, Jacob and Jordan; her great-granddaughters, KaeLynn and Sloane; and several nieces and nephews
A Memorial Service will be held at Westlawn-Hillcrest Funeral Home, 5701 Center St, Omaha, Nebraska 68106, on July 29, 2026, at 10:00 am.
