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Karen M. Kober

May 11, 1945 - Nov 19, 2024

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It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Karen Kober, our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and dear friend, on November 19, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on May 11th, 1945, in Sheboygan, Karen was a true Southside girl who brought light, laughter, and kindness to everyone she met. A proud graduate of South High School, Class of 1963, where she met the love of her life, Jimmy. They were married on June 19th, 1965.

Karen spent her early years babysitting, working at One Hour Martinizing, and Lakeland Manufacturing before devoting herself to raising her three boys. Later, she found fulfillment working at Kohler and then with the Sheboygan Area School District, where she became a fixture at South High School and its many recreational activities. After retirement, many local organizations benefited from her presence and time. She was a true Southside institution, knowing every face, every name, and every story in town.

Karen loved life’s simple joys and little luxuries. Whether it was a Diet Coke from McDonald’s, playing cards at local establishments, or dining at one of Sheboygan County’s many restaurants, Karen embraced every moment. Her glovebox always had salt, her wardrobe sparkled with pink, and her spirit was always a little fancy. She adored her grandchildren, Emma and Kyle and loved her granddogs, along with her countless friends, who were like family to her.

A woman of unwavering faith, Karen was a longtime member of St. Paul’s UCC, where she found comfort and community. Her love of music was as timeless as her personality, with Daniel O’Donnell, Kenny Rogers, and the Rat Pack topping her playlists. She even met Sammy Davis Jr. in Vegas, a memory she cherished.

Karen was the glue of our family, our princess, and our biggest cheerleader. Her unyielding fight, extreme resilience, and unwavering courage inspired all of us. She traveled to the ends of the earth to be with her loved ones, including a private jet ride to Tahoe, always with a joyful smile and a kind heart.

Karen is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jimmy; her brother, Roger; and her parents, Amanda, Edwin, and Lillian. She is survived by her three sons, Craig, Kevin (Kim), and Kurt (Abby), her beautiful grandchildren, Emma and Kyle, as well as her sisters-in-law Joyce Wagner and Joan Boston, and many cherished extended family members, you know who you are.

A celebration of Karen’s life will take place on Friday, November 22nd at St. Paul’s UCC at 2114 Wedemeyer St in Sheboygan, with a visitation from 9:00am to 12:00pm and service to follow at 12:00pm. A private family interment will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Sharon Richardson Hospice and Sheboygan County Cancer Care Fund in Karen’s honor.

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Embrace Care Management, the team at Sheboygan Blood and Cancer Specialists, Theresa Bronsan Schueler, Dr. Michael Johnson, and Eileen, Dave, Barb, Jack, Barb, Kelly, Greg, Kim, and Bob for their extraordinary care and compassion.

Karen’s legacy of kindness, joy, and unshakable faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. As she often reminded us, “Life is about the people you love and the memories you make,” and we are so grateful for every moment we shared with her.

Rest in peace, Mom. You will always be our princess.

Visitation

Date: Friday Nov 22, 2024
Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: St. Paul's United Church of Christ [map]

Memorial Service

Date: Friday Nov 22, 2024
Time: 12:00 PM
Location: St. Paul's United Church of Christ [map]

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Guestbook Entries SIGN GUESTBOOK

Margie Schoemer

We are so sorry for the loss of your mom. She was truly a wonderful person, and always had a smile to share. Our deepest condolences to you. Sincerely, Margie & Jerry Schoemer

Tom & Brenda Wagner

Kevin, Sorry for the loss of your mom. She always had a smile on her face every time I saw her, and I know she will be incredibly missed. Sorry that we were not able to make it to the funeral but please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. The Wagner’s

Matt Kautzer

Craig, Kevin, and Kurt - my deepest condolences to you and your families. I have the fondest of memories crossing paths with your dear Mother.. This says it all: “a true Southside girl who brought light, laughter, and kindness to everyone she met”.

Sara Steffen

Karen has been a client of mine at Entourage salon for many years. I've enjoyed chatting with her and hearing about her children and children, all of whom she was so proud of. She always asked about my kids and my family when she came in. She will truly be missed.

Ed Brunette

Sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. Take comfort in the fact that she is now with her Jimmy,, her beloved husband and your father, grand father.

The Babels

Love is eternal. Karen will forever be held in our hearts.

Bill Schlegel

Sorry to here that Karen has passed away. We have been friends since grade school. I`m thankful God shared her for 79 years before calling her home. Rest in peace. Our deepest sympathy.

Sue Weinknecht

My sincere and deepest sympathy to you Kurt, and entire family. She was definitely a special lady. From the time I met her, she became a friend. Her spirit will live on in each of you and the memories will keep her alive in your heart.

DiAnne Nysse

I was blessed to have you as my mother-in-law for several years. You were the kindest person to me and I will always remember the love you showed me. My deepest sympathies to the family. RIP Karen!

Donna Wagner Backus

My deepest sympathy to you all. I have fond memories of spending a few days every summer with Uncle Eddie, Aunt Amanda, Roger & Karen, when I was a kid. In particular, I remember the summer after Karen started dating Jimmy. She & I went “shopping” & spent the afternoon riding around with Jimmy. We drifted apart as we grew up & led our adult lives, but I always enjoyed talking to her when we met at reunions. I know her joyful presence will be dearly missed. My heart weeps for your loss. 🩷🕊🩷

John Sands

My deepest condolences to you and your family, Kurt on the loss of your sweet mother. I will always remember her fondly. She was such a sweet spirit. Big hugs and love from me and Melissa.

Sharon Aldag Garver

I was sadden to read A special gal, Karen, passed away.. We saw each other often by chance at the local restaurants . She loved her family. I enjoyed her boys in my third grade class.. Karen had qualities that were beyond notable . Many people will have a fond memory of her…

Nancy Trewin

A beautiful & touching obituary for the amazing person Karen was throughout her entire life!! I will miss her terribly! Rest in peace Karen! My sympathies go out to all her family!

Levi and Karel Melius

Our deepest sympathies to the wonder women and friend, she was a blessing to see and always smiling. She may have all the cream puffs she wants now in heaven, may she be a blessing to all the memories she left behind. She will truly be missed! Hugs and love to the family and friends! Deepest sympathy!!

Shelley L. Heinemann (Faucher)

Kevin and Family. My sincerest condolences. I will always remember your mom's infectious smile. May it now brighten heaven just a little more.

Kelly and Wade Jones

We have fond memories of our time with Karen in Sheboygan and her visits to Bentonville! It was a treat when she came to visit. Heaven did get a great one! God Bless you all and may your memories bring you great comfort. Love, Kelly and Wade Jones

Joan Boston

Karen, it was a pleasure and honor to have you in my life. I hope you knew how much Bob and I loved you.

Eileen Moenning

Rest in peace my beautiful friend. I will carry you with me forever in my heart.