Karen and I sat next to each other at work for a long, long time and I absolutely adored her presence and friendship. She would tell me so much about her animals and her family and loved listening to my stories as well. We got along so well because of so many things we had in common and even after leaving that job I'd remember a conversation or two that I had with her and it'd make me laugh or smile. She will be deeply missed by so many people! It was a joy having her in my day to day, even if for a moment.

Nic,

My deepest condolences to you and yours.  I know your family has suffered a big loss, and I know that Karen will be missed by many people.  My family included.

Growing up, I got the feeling Karen wasn't a fan of children.  Jerome and I used to easily get under her skin.  Though in hindsight,  we might have legitimately challenged her nerves.  I will say, though, her demeanor towards Jerome and I changed completely after you were born.  You meant the world to her, and having you changed her life in a profound way.  

I'll miss seeing Karen when visiting Iowa.  We send our sympathies from Ohio.  Please let me know if I can do anything for you during this challenging time.

Love Jeremy, Amy, Connor, and Wyatt

Dear Nic, Laura and Izzy,                                                  We are so sorry to read this news.  Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. I wish we could be with you but Mom is not able to travel. Sending you lots of hugs and lots of love!                 Love,                                                                                                Great-Aunt Cathy Freytag, Brian, Gwen & Kera Zumalt 

Karen, what a blessing your friendship was to me. You were consistently kind and generous. You didn’t take yourself too seriously and I always knew I was getting the real you. Through easy times and tough times, you always looked for the positive. And your laugh… that is a memory I will treasure forever. So much light and love. In my heart, I know I will see you again, but I miss your here. Love you, sweet friend.  

Nic and family,

John and I are so sorry for your loss. I knew your mom when you were born and when you were little. She loved being your mom and spending time with you and your family. You are in my prayers. 

John and Stephanie Wilkinson

Nic and family,

I am so sorry for your loss...  I am in shock that Karen is gone.  I just talked to her on Monday and as usual she talked about about how much she loved Izzie.   Izzie was her pride and joy..   

I worked with Karen at cognizant and we spent alot of lunches together and most mornings before our shift started.     She was a great person and a great friend to me. 

I will always remember her love for her family and especially Izzy .   And the kittens she adopted and loved.   

She will forever be in my heart!!!

Karen and I went through training together at Cognizant.  We spent many days sitting next to each other once we were out on our own at work.  She always had a smile on her face that you could 'hear' in her voice when talking to customers, even if the customer  wasn't so friendly.  We walked to and from our cars together most every night talking about the struggles of the day or what was for dinner and more than once, holding on to each other for dear life on those snowy and/or icy Iowa days.  We not only shared our lunches and snacks, we shared our lives.

Karen helped me when I needed help and I was lucky enough to get to return the favor.  She was gracious and kind.  Karen was a great friend and a beautiful person and I will miss her.  My thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones.

My deepest condolences, 
Michelle Rader-Smith

I worked with her downtown. She was a very brave sole. Starting over after Pioneer was a bit scary. She always told me how much she loved spending time with her family. So sorry for your loss.

To Karen's Family:

Karen and I worked together at Pioneer for several years. She was always pleasant, caring and dependable. She was also willing to learn new skills and take on challenges. Most importantly, she was a good person who valued family and friends. She will be missed. 

Nick, 
Pam and I are so sorry to hear of your mother's passing. Karen was a co-worker at Pioneer Hybred for 12 years. She was a kind, compassionate and talented team member who will be missed by many. Our thoughts and prayers are with you! 

Sincerely, 
Mike & Pam Grove
Sarasota, FL

Karen and I worked together at Pioneer around 30 years ago. She was a good friend  but we lost track of each other. She will be missed by many. 

Karen and I had so much fun hanging out. There were horse races,Travel with the kids. Gambling. Sight seeing. Will miss her dearly. She was such a lovely person. With the biggest heart! Known her over 45 years. Life won’t be the same without her. I thank God I got to see her , last year. And phone calls to each other was our way of keeping contact. So many great memories!

OBITUARY

Karen Dee Jerome

May 27, 1960 – November 16, 2021

McLaren’s Resthaven Chapel & Mortuary & Resthaven Cemetery

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