Karen S. Maaks Obituary (1950

Karen S. Maaks, 72, of Lincoln passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, October 22, 2022, in Grand Haven, MI. Karen began her life on September 23, 1950, in Bloomington, IL, the daughter of Emanuel W. and Nellie (Piper) Graber, born the fourth of nine children. She married James R. Maaks on August 30, 1991, in Lincoln, IL. He preceded her in death on April 30, 2003. Karen is survived by her daughters, Kimberly Welchel, Christi (Jason) Withers, and Kelsi (Joshua) Edwards; her grandchildren, Ashley, Stephanie, Cody, Jade, Emma, Brooklyn, and Declan; her six great-grandchildren; and her siblings, Lester Graber, Marvin Graber, Wayne Graber, Donald (Melinda) Graber, and Vicki Koller; also her long-time companion, Danny Mileham. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and her brothers, Emanuel Glenn, Ronald, and Kenneth. Karen was full of love and selflessness for anyone that had the pleasure of knowing her. She enjoyed the small things like having a coffee with friends, enjoying company by a bonfire, or helping those that just needed a favor. When she retired, she spent her time fishing, camping, shopping, and taking trips. Most of all she loved being a mother and grandparent. Karen was the glue that held her family together and she will be sorely missed. There are no words to describe the footprint Karen left with her time on earth. A memorial gathering to remember Karen's life will take place from 4:00PM-6:00PM on Tuesday, November 1, 2022 at Fricke-Calvert-Schrader Funeral Home in Lincoln, IL. Memorial donations may be made in Karen's name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.