MADISON - Karen Ann Ross, age 89, of Madison, passed away on August 29, 2026. She was born on January 10, 1937, the daughter of Charles and Mary (Welch) Harrington.

Karen graduated from Madison East High School in 1955. She played the flute and piccolo in the high school band. Karen married Donald Ross on October 26, 1957.

As an adult, Karen continued her music playing at church, in the Madison City band and orchestra for many years. She was a prolific crafter, making ceramics, sewing and quilting gifts for her children and grandchildren. She had several jobs performing bookkeeping and data entry.

Karen is survived by her son, Charles (Abby) Ross; grandchildren, David Ross, Sarah Ross, Heather Ross, Jackson Pearson and Kylie Pearson; and great-grandchildren, Austin Ross and Ava Ross. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Mary; husband, Donald; daughters, Barbara Ross and Ellen Pearson; son, Thomas Ross; grandchildren, Daniel and Jeffrey Ross; brothers, Charles and Donald; and sister, Jan McCormick.

A funeral service will be held in the chapel at ROSELAWN MEMORIAL PARK, 401 Femrite Drive, Monona, at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2026. A visitation will be held in the chapel from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Tuesday.

A special thank you for the care and compassion in shared caregiving for Karen. To granddaughters, Sarah and her friend, Erik; Heather and her fiancé, Patrick; the SSM Hospice team, Brian, Charlie, Laura, Wendy, Annette, Naomi and Teena; and the entire support team, especially Ciara who Karen enjoyed so much.

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

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Karen A Ross

January 10, 1937 - August 29, 2026

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