Karen J. Dorste
July 13, 1942 – July 10, 2021
FUNERAL SERVICE: Saturday, July 31st at 11am at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 13271, Millard Avenue. Interment: Evergreen Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to St. Paul Lutheran Church, Open Door Mission, or Habitat for Humanity.
To view a live broadcast of the Funeral and Graveside Services, please go to www.heafeyheafey.comand click the “View Live Cast” button on our home page.
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Age 78 passed away in her home. Karen was born in St. Louis, Missouri and grew up in Falls City, Nebraska. She graduated in 1960 from Falls City High School. Karen moved to Omaha, Nebraska right after graduation and was soon joined by her boyfriend, Richard from Stella, Nebraska. They married December 18, 1960, and had 2 children, Randy Lee and Kimberly Ann.
In 1973 Karen began working for FDIC where she was an administrative assistant until the mid ‘80s when FDIC closed their Omaha office. She finished her career at The Army Corp of Engineers where she retired in 1997.
Karen was an active member of Augustana Lutheran Church for over 40 years. She was a Sunday School teacher for many years and enjoyed Altar Guild, Bible Study groups, and many women’s meetings.
In 2006 she became a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Millard where she has worshiped the past 15 years.
Karen enjoyed spending time with family and preparing everyone’s favorite meals. Sunday dinners were always a must where everyone enjoyed the big Sunday dinner and family time. She always loved holiday festivities and making some of the best Springerle cookies at Christmas time.
Karen and Richard traveled to 49 states over the years where they shared so many memories and adventures together. They did not make it to Hawaii before Richard’s death, but she did get to enjoy Hawaii in 2006 with her daughter and granddaughter. Karen was excited to complete her 50 state journey but was sad to not have had Richard join her on her trip to Hawaii.
Karen was preceded in death by parents; husband, Richard L., son and daughter-in-law, Randy L. and Ruth A. Dorste; brother, Byron E. Gerlt. Survived by daughter, Kim Dorste (Michelle Francis); granddaughter, Katie Dorste; brother, Gail Gerlt of Roseburg, OR; sister, Pamela Creasman of Inman, SC; sister-in-law, Linda Gerlt, Peyton, CO; brother-in-law, Kent Dorste of Auburn, NE; nieces and nephews..
11 Comments
So sorry to hear about Karen. I remember when I was visiting with Mom and Dad (Irwin and Marcile) in 1979 I was able to hang out with the family a bit and nearly got into trouble with Randy. Karen was very kind and tolerant! While I did not have the chance to really get to know her, I see that she really blessed her church and friends. I know that she is blessing all with whom she is with now.
We were so shocked and sad to learn of Karen’s passing. We had just recently gotten an email from her letting us know that she would be unable to attend our FCHS 1960/61 combined class reunion. We have many fond memories of Karen and the days of our youth. Please accept our condolences and know that we will keep Karen and the family in our prayers.
Karen was a caring and kind person that I was blessed to call as a forever friend. She was family in the truest sense.
Prayers of care and concern for her extended family.
I am so sad to hear about Karen’s passing. I was so blessed to know her! She will be missed!!!
Please accept my sympathy. I worked with Karen at FDIC and the Corps.
Dear Kim, Michelle, and Katie,
The shock of Karen’s passing will be etched in my mind, body, and spirit for the rest of my life. I can only imagine how that must be magnified for you. Karen will live on in my heart, and good memories of her roll with it attitude and great sense of humor. I’ll remember the camping vacation and her kindness. I wish I lived closer and hadn’t agreed to fill in as I really hate to miss being at the service. Know that I’ll be watching at home sending you strength and support from WA. You are in my prayers numerous times a day. May God hold you.
Love,
Dana
Karen was a dear sister-in-law whom I loved very much. Being married to her brother, Byron, and knowing how much he loved her it was easy to love her too. I will always remember her cooking and baking skills, especially her delicious and beautiful pies. She leaves a huge hole in our family and will be greatly missed.
Was shocked that day of Karen’s passing. She will be missed but she will be in my heart forever. Always
enjoyed her cooking and desserts that she made. Every Christmas was waiting for my cookies that she sent
to us siblings. I loved her Springerie cookies that she made from scratch. She is missed from the weekly calls to each other which lasted for an hour or more. We always had things to talk about & go thru the Falls City Journal. Rest In Peace Karen & will be together one day. .
Kim, my heart goes out to you and Katie. I know how close you were with you mom. She was a very special person and I’m glad I got to know her. Keep her in your memories. I will be thinking of you on Saturday.
My thought and prayers are with you. Karen was a great lady. I am so blessed to have met her. Love and hugs
To Kim, I met your mom several years ago at weddings in Washington. We communicated a little and Gail always kept me informed on family events. He told me how suddenly Karen passed. Please accept my condolences. Always remember the good times. Jenny Marmet
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