Karen Ann (Wolford) Althof
The world may seem a little less warm and loving to those who knew Karen Ann (Wolford) Althof. Born March 10, 1947, Karen was 68 years old when she passed from a massive stroke on Monday, Aug. 10.
Karen was born and raised in Prairie du Chien. She graduated from St. Mary’s Academy in 1965. She met Allan in 1968 and they were married a few years later on July 29, 1972. They raised their three children and ran a business together for 20 plus years. When her children were older, Karen decided to pursue her passion in the medical industry. She first accomplished the Registered Nursing program and then proceeded to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She found her true calling at the University of WI Madison Hospital and Clinics, where she worked for many years. She touched many lives and souls who remember her empathetic and caring nature.
Karen made the difficult decision to retire from nursing in 2012. Since then she has filled her life with enjoyment and love and family and friends. Karen’s husband, children and grandchildren were one of her biggest enjoyments. She would have done anything for her family as much as they would have done for her. Her family will always feel her loss.
Another pleasure was when her and Al were able to ride all day on their Harley, even if it meant a sunburn and a sore back. In the winters, they would travel to Florida for warmer weather so they could make their bike riding season last a little longer. When they were at home, Karen enjoyed her knitting and crocheting projects albeit with perfectionism; her cooking and baking were heartily enjoyed by those close to her; and when she had to take a break, she passed the time with many a good book.
To many Karen was a partner, a mother, a grandmother, a sister, a friend, a teacher, a caretaker, a sympathetic ear, a shoulder to cry on, a sarcastic wit, a rock to hold onto during a storm, and a compassionate, loving heart. While her presence is greatly missed, her essence will live on in the hearts and minds who loved her.
She leaves behind her loving, devoted husband Allan Althof of 43 years and her children Aimee (Althof) and Travis Wiersma, Alex and Miranda (Hagensick) Althof, and Amanda (Althof) and Chadd Coleman, as well as her grandchildren Allison Althof, Rowen and Luca Althof, and Nathan and Alaina Coleman. She was preceded in death by her parents Beverly and Robert Wolford and her very dear friend Faye LaBonne.
To honor Karen, close family and friends held a private gathering to celebrate her life. Her family asks that if there is anyone else who wishes to honor her, to please do so by keeping her in their thoughts and hearts.