Karen Rae Shroba

Karen Rae Shroba, formerly of Wilmington, IL passed away on January 11, 2025 at the age of 76 years. She is survived by her strongest supporter, her husband of 51 years, Lawrence (Larry). She was the proud mother to son Kevin (Becky) Shroba, and daughter Angie (Ted) Lefere. Her favorite title was "Grandma" and she will be greatly missed by her grandchildren Andrew and Daniel Shroba and Maggie, Helen, Luke, and James Lefere. She was preceded in death by her parents Elmer and Pauline Weese and older sister Lynn Weese.

Karen was born in Joliet, IL on December 14, 1948. She attended Catholic schools throughout her life, honored to be a graduate of the first co-ed class at Providence Catholic High School in New Lenox, IL in 1966. Shortly after high school, she met the love of her life, Larry. Karen and Larry were married in the fall of 1973 and welcomed their children Kevin and Angie shortly afterwards. Karen was just as strong as a supporter of Larry, as he was for her. They made a good team.  They spent over 40 years at the home Larry lovingly built for them to raise their family in. She, along with Larry, gave Kevin and Angie an idyllic childhood , filled with so many happy memories of time on the river, camping, vacations to FL, all day pool days, and inside the walls of the family home.

Karen was happy to be a stay-at-home mom for many years. This allowed her to cart Kevin and Angie off to their multiple activities and volunteer her time as Cub Scout Leader and Brownie Leader. Once the kids were old enough to be "Latchkey Kids," Karen returned to the work force. She worked for many years at a local bank, close enough to allow her to run home over lunch break and check in. She also had many happy years as an administrative assistant at Horseshoe Casino. Her final place of employment was at Riverside Diabetes Center, where she made many friends and genuinely enjoyed helping the patients who came for appointments. Her pleasant nature and easy smile were appreciated and a welcome sight for many patients. She was also very active in the Women's Club at Providence Catholic High School when her children were enrolled.

In her retirement, Karen loved to travel to Florida where each year she and Larry became snow birds. They spent time visiting her only sister there, as well as making many new friends. Serious games of Scrabble, trips to the beach, and late nights with multi-course dinners and drinks were the norm. She and Larry also spent time exploring areas of South Carolina, South Dakota, Arizona, Wisconsin  and Michigan. She'd already be planning the next trip while on their current vacation.

Karen was a true friend to many. She was described as loving, fun, and always welcoming. She didn't hesitate to  step in and help a friend in need. Karen would never turn down a shopping trip and spent many years braving the Black Friday crowds with her special friends Lynn, Mary, and Chris. She will be dearly missed by beloved family friend of over 50 years, Nancy.  Karen also loved a "fancy" cup of coffee and any kind of dessert, especially chocolate. Even as her health failed, her eyes would light up at the mention of chocolate. She loved gathering family and friends together to share a meal.

Karen was a loyal wife, caring mother, and doting grandma who will be missed fiercely. Heartfelt thanks are extended to the entire staff at Vista Grande Villa and Tammy at Careline Hospice. We appreciate the love and respect you always showed.

The family is having a private, local service. Karen's life will be celebrated with family and friends at a later date in IL and details will be forthcoming.

Desnoyer Funeral Home
Family Owned for 135 Years