Karen R. Essex, 83, of Story City and formerly of Marshalltown and Mount Vernon, passed away Sunday, Oct. 22, 2023, at Bethany Life in Story City.
A Memorial service was held Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2023, at the Unity Presbyterian Church, 1149 Hammond Ave., Waterloo, IA 50702. Inurnment was in Waterloo Memorial Park Cemetery.
Karen was born Jan. 6, 1940, in Cedar Rapids, the daughter of Howard M., Sr. and Freda B. (Glasscock) White. She grew up in Waterloo and graduated from West Waterloo High School in 1958.
Karen had a passion for learning all her life, which led to her graduating from the University of Northen Iowa in 1989, with a BA Degree in Home Economics and Family Services.
She had a passion for history, was artistic, creative and loved discovering new crafts to try.
Karen’s faith was very important to her, along with building friendships and taking care of her family and friends.
Karen is survived by her four children, Scott Essex of Galveston, Texas, Alan (Linda) Essex of Kellogg, Sonia (Tom) Redmond of Mount Vernon, and Rhonda (Jose) Carmona of Houston, Texas; brother, Howard M. “Buck” (Sharon) White, Jr. of Galena, Mo.; 12 grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; six great-grandchildren and six step-great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the Karen Essex Memorial Fund has been established and memorials can be directed to the family or mailed to Adams Funeral Home, c/o the Karen Essex Family to 502 Douglas Ave, Ames, IA 50010.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Kathy (Jim) Hubbs.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Adams Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left for Karen’s family at www.adamssoderstrum.com.