She was born on July 15, 1958, in Staunton, IL, the daughter of Paul and Ruby Hering. Karen married her loving husband, Eric Stark on July 7, 1979.
She is survived by her husband, Eric Stark of Glenarm; sons, Adam Stark of St. Louis, MO and Matthew (Jonica) Stark of Chatham; daughter, Julie (Bryan) McCubbin of Chatham; her treasured eight grandchildren, Sophia and Luke Stark, Hudson, Crosby, and Briggs McCubbin, and Abraham, Otis, and Desalina Stark; our loving Christy Freeman Stark of Loami, IL; mother, Ruby Hering; her four siblings, David (Robin) Hering of Fenton, MO, Paula (John) Snyder of St. Peters, MO, John (Matt) Hering of Minneapolis, MN, and Mary (Thomas) Scherff of Waterloo, IL; and several nieces and nephews.
Karen was preceded in death by her father, Paul Hering.
Karen received her degree from Lewis and Clark and enjoyed a 43-year career as a medical laboratory technician at St. John’s Hospital. She was proud of her stellar record of never calling in sick for those 43 years. Karen found great comfort and peace being a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church of Chatham. She enjoyed gardening, singing, playing the piano, going to the Muni, going to the movies, and a fine key lime pie. Karen and Eric had an adventurous spirit and through many travels made it to all 50 states, some places abroad, many splendid cruises, and 57 of the 63 national parks. They made many special memories together on those trips. Most of all, she cherished all the moments with her family and her greatest enjoyment in life were the times she spent with her grandchildren. Karen treasured every birthday party, holiday, ballgame, vacation, reunion, or visit. Her laugh, smile, and charm brought a warmth to all. Honey, we will miss you, but we will hold you in our hearts forever.
Cremation was provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.
Memorial Ceremony: 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 1225 N. Main St., Chatham, IL with Rev. Kevin Wendorf officiating.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00 until 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at Prairie View Reception Center, 8865 State Route 4, Chatham, IL. Please join the family for memories, fellowship and refreshments.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.
The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Chatham, 8855 State Route 4, Chatham, IL.
