Karen Zimmerer

Lawrence, Kan. — Karen Stohner Zimmerer died unexpectedly Friday, Nov. 16, 2018, at the University of Kansas Hospital.

She was born Aug. 12, 1945, in Camden, N.J., the daughter of Donald and Elizabeth Stohner. She graduated from Haddon Heights High School in 1963 and earned a degree in Spanish from Lake Forest College in 1967.

Karen worked as a teacher, estate administrator at a bank, librarian, manager of the Nautilus Museum gift shop, but most importantly as a wife and mother.

She married Rupert “Roz” Zimmerer on June 22, 1968, in Barrington, N.J. He survives of the home. Other survivors include two daughters, Janet Zimmerer of Norwich and Gail Zimmerer-Bonsall, (Scott Bonsall) of Ada, Mich.; two brothers, Paul Stohner (Andrea) of Ocean City, N.J., and Jerry Stohner (Debbie) of Ormond Beach, Fla. She also leaves behind four beloved grandchildren: Jayden, Paige, Rowan and Reese Bonsall; two nieces, Amy Debye-Saxinger (Gerhard) and Darby Stohner; two nephews, Matthew Stohner (Carrie) and Zachary Stohner; and two grand-nieces and two grand-nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents; and a niece, Allison Stohner.

Karen loved her family, friends and animals, especially giraffes, and had a room dedicated to her collection. She also enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles and traveling. Since moving back to Lawrence from Connecticut, she became a Jayhawk and KC sports fan, without ever losing her fondness for her Philadelphia teams. Her love of life shone brightly whenever she competed, be it word games, sports, or in her many bridge groups with friends.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7, at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home.

The family suggests memorials to Theater Lawrence or the Giraffe Conservation Foundation sent in care of the funeral home, Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, 601 Indiana St., Lawrence, KS 66044.

Online condolences may be sent at www.rumsey-yost.com.