Karen Gibbs
Karen Kathryn Gibbs
(nee Backes)
Karen passed away on Monday, September 1, 2025, at the age of 84.
Beloved wife of the late Daniel D. Gibbs, Sr. Loving mother of Carrie (Carl) Clements, Corey (Jeff) Johnson, Daniel Gibbs Jr., Jack Gibbs, Renee Gibbs, Krag Gibbs, and Jeannine Gibbs and the late Paul W. Gibbs. Dear grandmother of Josh (Jennifer) Carrico, Nicki Johnson, Trista Clements, Cayla (Alex) Marshall, Alex Gibbs, Ryan (Nina) Gibbs, Stephanie Gibbs, Jessie (Ty) Yakel, Joseph Gibbs, Jennifer Gibbs, and Rochelle Gibbs. Proud great-grandmother of Antonio, Biancia, Tanner, Emma, Giovanni, Grace, Jaxson Ellie, and the late Carter. Karen will also be remembered by other relatives and friends.
Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Eva (nee Matti) Backes.
Greeting Karen on the other side with their joyous barks and wagging tail were her beloved family pets, Gyp, Babe, Flossy, Bailey, Sophie, Chloe, Brandi, Mandy, Lilly, Hunter, Chase, Elmo, Astro, Noche, and Hooch.
Karen’s enthusiasm for life was as varied as it was infectious. She was an avid card player, with Sheepshead being her game of choice. Her love for the outdoors was evident in the meticulous care she gave to her gardens. Both flowers and vegetables thrived; her garden was a testament to her patience and green thumb.
Not one to sit still for long, Karen also enjoyed a range of activities that kept her moving and socializing. Horseshoes, archery, and bingo were among her favorite pastimes, each providing her with countless hours of joy and camaraderie. Family outings were particularly dear to Karen. She relished the opportunity to cheer on her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren at athletic events and dance competitions.
An avid enthusiast of canning, Karen found joy in the simple act of preserving seasonal abundance beyond its harvest. Her shelves were always stocked. with jars of homemade jams, pickles, and sauces. Friends and family often looked forward to the times Karen would share her latest creations.
Always on the lookout for a good find, Karen took pleasure in rummaging through sales, where she delighted in the thrill of the hunt. Her adventurous spirit was also evident in the excitement she felt while riding in her son Dan’s Cobra, feeling the wind in her hair and the power of the engine.
Karen’s love for the outdoors extended to the tradition of deer processing parties, where she would partake with gusto, sharing stories and laughter with friends and family. It was in these moments that Karen’s down-to-earth nature and sense of community shone brightest.
Karen’s family respectfully requests that no formal service or gathering take place. Instead, they encourage loved ones to remember and celebrate the cherished memories shared.
Church & Chapel Funeral Service Serving the Family
Milw. 262-827-0659 Wauk. 262-549-0659
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