Karren Lobby

Karren Lobby, 81, of Westfield, passed away peacefully at Harris Villa Assisted Living on Saturday, August 14, 2021 after a short battle with cancer. Karren was born at home on Ground Hog’s Day to Elmer and Lillian Collins and graduated from Westfield High School.  She married Gerald (Jerry) Lobby, and although they later divorced, they remained friendly for their entire lives. She worked for Brakebush Brothers for 40 years, Alexanders (both locations) and had several cleaning jobs at various businesses.

Karren is survived by her daughter Marcia (Jack) Lee; her grandson Parker (whom she was very proud of); her sister Rita Schmidt; several cousins, including Bob and Marc, with whom she remained in contact; and many lifelong friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her son Sean Collins, and her ex-husband.

Karren was blessed with a green thumb and also with the ability to create many beautiful things. The lilies and other plants she loved to grow around her home were appreciated by many, including strangers who were driving by and stopped to admire them. She was happy and honored to share her talents with others, gifting plants and handmade crafts for as long as she was able.

Having a natural curiosity about people, it gave her so much satisfaction when she discovered things about the people she met. “Do you know she drives from Reedsburg here to work every day?” Or, “I worked with his mother-in-law many years ago at Brakebush.”

She remained stubbornly independent, even after she was forced to use a walker. “What’s that noise out in the hall?” Villa staff wondered. “Oh, it’s Karren, using her walker and dragging her basket of laundry to the laundry room so she can do it herself.”

A memorial service for Karren will be held on Saturday, September 11, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at New Beginnings Christian Community Church, Westfield, with Pastor Terry Temanson officiating. A visitation will be held on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until the hour of service.  A luncheon will follow the service at church and inurnment will immediately follow the lunch at Westfield East Cemetery for all who wish to attend.

Karren would want everyone to feel safe; please mask and socially distance as you feel is appropriate for yourself.

The family thanks the staff members at Harris Villa and at Agrace Hospice Care for their dedication and care. We also appreciate the many kindnesses shown by dear friends, old and new, that helped Karren remain in her own home for as long she felt she could. In addition, she always fondly remembered and appreciated her “Village People” in Westfield for their services above and beyond, as well as Bob her handy man.

The family suggests donations in Karren’s memory to Budda-Box, PO Box 91, Westfield, WI, 53964. Budda-Box supports Marquette County residents who have been diagnosed with cancer, emotionally and financially.

Please take a moment to view the online Tribute Wall.  Send your condolences or share a memory of Karren with her family & friends.