Karen Betty (Werner) Herrmann

Karen Betty Herrmann (nee Werner), age 76, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 17, 2023 with her loving family by her side.

Karen is survived by her two sons, Keith (Amy) Herrmann and Kevin (Jennie) Herrmann; grandchildren, Austin, Mason and Ashlyn; her brother, Jack (Judy) Werner; brother-in-law, Jay (the late Gail) Egenes; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and dear friends.

Preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Lee Herrmann; sister, Gail Egenes; and her parents, Robert and Betty (nee Nordentoft) Werner.

Karen began her career as a teacher and educator in Wisconsin. Once she moved to Illinois, Karen spent over 20 years as a beloved teacher. Many of those years were devoted to focusing on ESL and Reading Recovery at several of the Plainfield Schools in District 202.

Karen was an active and devoted member of the Theodore Street Lutheran Church and most recently of Faith Lutheran Church in Joliet. She gladly served on Councils, taught Sunday School, participated in choir, bell choir, the food pantry, Circle Bible Study and helped with many other activities at both churches. She served in leadership rolls and attended several conventions throughout the United States for WELCA (Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America). In a partnership with Pershing Elementary School, Karen organized and led Kids Hope, a program working one on one with children.

Karen was a loving mother who selflessly devoted her life to bettering the lives of children, especially her own. Her grandchildren were the light of her life. She loved spoiling them, attending their events and adored them with all of her heart. Karen will be truly missed by all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Karen’s name may be directed to Lightways Hospice in Joliet, the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, the Alzheimer’s Association or Faith Lutheran Church, 353 N. Midland Ave, Joliet.

A celebration of Karen’s life will be held on Sunday, June 11, 2023 at Faith Lutheran Church, 353 N. Midland Avenue, Joliet with a memorial visitation from 1:30 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. A funeral service for Karen will be held at 3:00 p.m. Per Karen’s wishes, cremation rites have been accorded.