Karen Marie Nelson, 50, of Manteno, Remembered for Faith, Family, and Love of Cooking

Karen Marie Nelson, 50, passed away on June 27, 2025, in Kankakee after a courageous battle with health issues. Born to Terry and Jeanne Schnell in Kankakee on May 21, 1975, Karen was a devoted sister to Brian and a loving mother to Bryce and Christina. She married Shane Nelson in 1999 and worked in human resources for multiple companies, most recently with Middle River Marine.

A devout Christian, Karen found solace in her faith and was an active member of the Gathering Point congregation. Known for her culinary talents, Karen delighted her loved ones with dishes like peanut butter pie, strawberry pretzel salad, and homemade cookies. She enjoyed gardening, travel, and time spent with her family, including their cherished pets Zia and Lucy.

Karen is survived by her parents, children, brother, husband, extended family, and close friends. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her. A visitation will be held on July 1, 2025, at Clancy-Gernon Funeral Home, with funeral services the following day at First Baptist Church in Manteno. Rev. Dane Matthews will officiate the service, and interment will follow at Elmwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to an account set up for Karen’s children at National Bank of Manteno to support their futures.

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