Barbara Diane Karst

Barbara Diane Karst

September 30, 1937 - November 23, 2024

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Obituary

MADISON / PORT WASHINGTON - Barbara Diane Karst, age 87, of Madison, passed away on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at St. Mary's Hospital. She was born on September 30, 1937, in Waukesha, WI the daughter of James and Dorothy (Hartung) Adrian.


Barbara graduated from Wauwatosa High School in 1955 and Lawrence University in 1959. She was united in marriage to Walter Karst and they celebrated 64 years together. Barbara worked as an English teacher in Edgerton, WI and Port Washington High School. In 1998 Barbara was awarded Teacher of the Year and retired in 1999.


Barbara was one of the founding members of St. Simon The Fisherman Episcopal Church in Port Washington and a proud and active member at St. Dunstan’s Church. She was an avid reader and enjoyed participating in her book club and spending time at the family cabin in Vilas County. She loved traveling around the United States and overseas in Europe.


Barbara is survived by her son, James (Lisa) Karst; granddaughter, Victoria Karst; great-grandchild, Adrian; sister-in-law, Kathleen (Roger) Larson; nephews, Scott Krueger, Eric Krueger and Jim Reed; and nieces, Allison Pena and Christine Thoryk.  She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Dorothy; husband, Walter; and son, Craig Karst.


A memorial service will be held at ST. DUNSTAN'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 6205 University Ave., Madison, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 14, 2024, with Miranda K. Hassett presiding. Visitation will be held at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday.


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


Gunderson West
Funeral & Cremation Care
7435 University Ave.
(608) 831-6761



Events

14
Visitation
Sat Dec 14, 2024 @ 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM CDT
St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church • 6205 University Ave., Madison, WI 53705
Get Directions
14
Memorial Service
Sat Dec 14, 2024 @ 11:00 AM - 11:45 AM CDT
St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church • 6205 University Ave., Madison, WI 53705
Get Directions

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Steve Metz
Other •
Sad to hear of Mrs. Karst's passing. She, along with her husband, left an indelible mark on so many students during their time at Port Washington High School. For me personally, she inspired confidence in both written and spoken word. I believe the course was College Prep English, and everyone feared (incorrectly) of being assigned to Mrs. Karst's class. At the end, they were inspired and more confident. Rest in peace Mrs. Karst.
JR
Julie Rhea
Other •
I had Mrs. Karst for College Prep English my senior year at Port (graduated in '87) and I thoroughly enjoyed her class. I still remember things she taught me, and I also remember her passion for teaching and her love for her students. She was one of my all-time favorites - she left her mark on me, that's for sure! Very sorry to hear of her passing, and I wish peace to her family during this difficult time. - Julie (Roeber) Rhea
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Anonymous
Other •
Our deepest sympathies to you and your family! We shared some great memories throughout our lives living Nextdoor to you.
GJ
Gail Jordan
Other •
Barbara Karst was a special sort of person. She was candid, frank and honest—but pretty much always kind. We laughed together and shed tears. The twinkle in her eye could improve the gloomiest day. If only all people could have her humanity, compassion and sparkle! I will miss my friend as long as I shall live.
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Anonymous
Other •
Barbara was an inspiration to so many people during her lifetime and that inspiration will live on in all our memories. Rest in peace.
A
Anonymous
Other •
Oh, dear Barbara, thank you for the memories. You are a special soul. Love, Nora

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