STOUGHTON - Karen Jacqueline Denk, age 82, of Stoughton, passed away on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Nazareth Health and Rehabilitation. She was born on February 13, 1944, in Columbus, the daughter of John and Amy (Slinde) Kluever.

Karen graduated from Columbus High School in 1962. She was united in marriage to Terrence Leonard Denk on July 17, 1976. Karen dedicated more than 30 years of service to the State of Wisconsin, working first at the McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research and later in the Horticulture Department.

Karen was a devoted mother and grandmother whose greatest joy was spending time with her family. She loved being present for every milestone and everyday moment, from chaperoning school field trips to supporting her children's activities. When her daughter, Tammie, was a cheerleader, Karen became a second mom to the entire cheer squad, always cheering them on with encouragement, kindness, and unwavering support. She treasured every opportunity to create memories with her children and grandchildren, who were the center of her life.

Karen embraced life with enthusiasm and found joy in many hobbies and interests. She was a devoted fan of UW Badger women's volleyball and never missed a game, often sharing that tradition by taking her granddaughters along. She enjoyed playing in pool and women's bowling leagues, knitting, creating ceramics, shopping, and searching for treasures at garage sales. Madeline Island was her favorite getaway; a place she loved returning to whenever she could.

Karen also delighted in collecting special keepsakes, especially cardinals, snowmen, Beanie Babies and teddy bears. She was an exceptional baker, and earlier in her life was known for her beloved Christmas cutout cookies, which she generously made and shared with family, friends, and others each holiday season.

Above all, Karen loved people. She was known for her warm smile, kind heart and welcoming hugs. Affectionately known by many as the "Walgreens Lady," she greeted everyone she met with a cheerful hello. Her home was a gathering place where family and friends always felt welcome, and she had a remarkable way of making everyone feel like they belonged. She wasn't just a mom to her own children, she was a mom to everyone.

“Being one of Karen’s “girls” is a true blessing. She was wilder than ever, but I’d rather be wild than boring lol. If you knew her then you get it. I get to smile thinking about how cool she was.” -Tera Kjendlie.

Karen is survived by her daughters, Tammie (Adam Lawinger) Thompson and Tori (Casey) Downs; granddaughters, Tera (Tyler) Kjendlie and Jayden, Kierra, and Allexia Downs; great grandchildren, Aubri and Alina; siblings, Sandra Vance and Thomas (Cathy) Kluever; sisters-in-law, Maria Kluever, Rita Kluever, Gail Kluever, and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Terrence; parents, John and Amy; brothers, David (Tracie) Kluever, Leroy Kluever, Fred "Fritz" (Betty) Kluever, Ralph Kluever, Harlow (Lorraine) Kluever, Joe Kluever, Eugene Kluever and Earl Kluever (passed away at the age of 5); sisters, Virginia (Albert) Brockmann and Muriel (Roger) Zwickey; and brother-in-law, William Vance.

A visitation will be held at GUNDERSON STOUGHTON FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 1358 Highway 51 N. at Jackson St., Stoughton, from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Friday, July 31, 2026.

In honor of Karen and her vibrant spirit, the family kindly invites you to wear a touch of pink to the visitation, if you are able. Let’s surround her with her favorite color.

Karen will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, infectious smile, and the genuine love she shared with everyone she met. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched through her caring heart, welcoming spirit, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends.

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

Gunderson Stoughton
Funeral & Cremation Care
1358 Highway 51 N. at Jackson St.
(608) 873-4590

Karen Jacqueline Denk

February 13, 1944 - July 11, 2026

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