CROSS PLAINS - Karen L. Laszewski, age 82, of Cross Plains, passed away on Monday, May 13, 2024. She was born on May 9, 1942, in Columbus, Ohio, to her parents, Harry and Carol (Drury) Wells.

Karen graduated from Platteville High School and continued her education at Madison Business College. Karen worked as an advertising director at The Cheese Reporter, and was also an owner of the Plant Barn. She reconnected with a former high school classmate, John Cole, and they were married on June 23, 2022.

Karen enjoyed knitting and donating blankets, mittens, hats, sweaters and more to hospitals, shelter, churches, and other organizations. Her devotion to volunteer work led Karen to receive the 2015 United States President's Lifetime Achievement Award. In her free time, Karen was an avid gardener, cultivating flowers and vegetables. She deeply loved her Boston Terriers and felt a strong connection to them. Karen also enjoyed reading books and listening to "Old Time Rock and Roll".

Karen is survived by her husband John Cole; two sons, Matt and Scott (Jill) Laszewski; daughters, Jeni Laszewski and Jayne (Adam Youngbar) Laszewski; grandchildren, Kylie, Laine, Zack and Wyatt; and brother-in-law, Bob Martens. She was preceded in death by her parents, Harry, who died in WWII, and Carol; and her siblings, Barbara Martens and Craig Nabbefeld.

In keeping with Karen's wishes, no services will be held.

“If you have an empty place inside you, helping others will fill it with brightness. The more you give, the more you get back."

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson Cross Plains
Funeral & Cremation Care
2421 Church St.
(608) 798-3141

Karen L. Laszewski

May 09, 1942 - May 13, 2024

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