Karen Louise Martini, age 72, of Monroe passed away on Friday, October 18, 2024 at Azura Memory Care of Monroe.  She was born on December 4th, 1951 in Freeport and graduated from Monroe High School where later in life she would be a custodian for the Monroe Schools for many years.  Karen was married to John K. Bauman in December of 1969 in Monroe, until his passing on November 13, 1984.  She later married Ron Martini in October of 2003 in Monroe.  Before working at the school, Karen worked at Dormans Cheese, Frito Lay, sold real estate for Century 21, and ran a Dairy operation on Middle Juda Rd with her husband and father-in-law.  

Karen loved to play cards, go to the casino, host holiday dinners, make Christmas cookies, and ride in the big farm machinery.  She was extremely proud of her children and loved her grandchildren so much.  Her family and friends meant the world to her.  She was proud of her home and it was her castle. 

Karen is survived by her children and grandchildren, Dan (Denise) Bauman of Monroe, Jaime Bauman of Belleville; grandchildren, Cory, Logan, Addison, and Emma; brother, Dennis (Sue) Crooks of Orangeville, IL; close friends, Mary and Kay; sister-in-law, Judy Crooks; she is further survived by many nieces, nephews, special nephew, Jerry Richardson, and extended family on the Bauman side and the Martini side.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ron; mom, Edna Leuzinger; brother, Laverne Crooks, and sister, Virginia Askey.

A Celebration of Karen’s Life will be held on Thursday, October 24, 2024 from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Shriner Hager Gohlke Funeral Home. A private burial will be held at Greenwood Cemetery at a later date.  Condolences may be sent to the family at: shriner111.com.

Karen’s family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to SSM Hospice and the Azura staff for the wonderful care shown to Karen and her family during this difficult time.