Karen Eilers

Karen Eilers, 78, of Kansas City, MO, passed away peacefully at rest on October 10, 2022. She was born in the Walter Reid Army Hospital to Victor Earl Bluedorn and Elizabeth Ann Garlock on August 24, 1944. She married the love of her life, Bill Eilers, on June 25, 1966. They were married 56 years and together, they created a loving family with two children.

Karen was a faithful believer in Christ, who walked with Jesus her entire life. She was raised in the Presbyterian Church and became an active member wherever she lived.

Karen was raised in Wheaton, IL and was big sister to Bruce by four years. She graduated from Wheaton High School where she was in choir, sang solos and was a cheerleader. She then graduated from Buena Vista University with an Elementary Education degree. There, she was a cheerleader and elected as Homecoming Queen in 1965.

Karen was a teacher for life and volunteered within the community. She taught second grade and Christian preschool for many years. In church, she served as an elder, and she taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. Karen completed Bible Study Fellowship and was an instructor. In the community she served as past president of a chapter of PEO, as past president of West Omaha New Neighbors and on the Board of the Buena Vista Alumni Association.

Karen was a lover of music, especially singing in church choirs. She will always be remembered for the joy she shared in her card giving at every occasion, and her love of balloons and butterflies. Whether by the pool, lake or ocean, she loved being by water and sunbathing. She loved having West Highland Terriers as part of the family, which brought fun and companionship. Most of all, Karen will be remembered for the great love and sacrifices that she made for her family. “Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: ‘Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all’” (Proverbs 31:28, 29).

Despite facing Multiple Sclerosis and many other health ailments throughout her life, Karen remained positive and didn’t complain. These past 3 ½ years, Karen lived in assisted living, followed by skilled nursing. She handled all these challenges with dignity and strength.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents; and brother Bruce and his wife Anne. Survivors include her husband, Bill; children: Andrew (Marybeth) Eilers, and Alison (Matthew) Iske; grandchildren: Nathan Eilers, and Tyler and Graham Iske; as well as extended family and friends.

Memorials may be sent to Gashland Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 8029 N Oak Trafficway, Kansas City, MO 64118.