Karen K. Hoover

In Loving Memory of Karen Hoover, October 29, 2025

Karen Kay Hoover, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, teacher, and friend, passed away on October 29, 2025, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Born to John and Mary Schmitz, Karen grew up in a close-knit family that valued love, faith, and perseverance, principles she carried throughout her life. An educator at heart, she dedicated her career to teaching mathematics, serving as both a teacher and department head at Auburn Gifted Academy. She inspired generations of students to think critically, to believe in their abilities, and to pursue excellence, preparing many for advanced studies in mathematics and statistics.

Karen’s energy and determination extended far beyond the classroom. She found great joy in maintaining her health and encouraging others to do the same, both teaching and participating in aerobics with her characteristic enthusiasm and discipline. Her love of learning and self-improvement was matched only by her love for family and home.

She was the devoted wife of Steve, with whom she shared fifty-three wonderful years of marriage. Their love story began in high school in 1967 and grew into a lifelong partnership filled with laughter, faith, and unwavering devotion. She was also a proud, loving mother to Jonathan, Adam (Roxanne), and Eric. Her greatest joy came from her role as Grandma, cheering on Dylan at her school marching band performances, proudly supporting Zandis, Caiden, and Mason at countless hockey games, enthusiastically rooting for Maddox at his soccer and volleyball matches, and spending playful moments with her youngest granddaughter Vivian.

Karen’s warmth filled every corner of her home, which she shared with her six adored Yorkies who were her constant companions and daily source of comfort. A lifelong fan of The Wizard of Oz, she found joy in sprinkling Oz-themed collectables throughout her home, attending live productions, and routinely rewatching the film.

She was the cherished daughter-in-law of Lee and Vi Hoover and a beloved sister to Greg, Rick, Kim, Lisa, Steve, and Rod.

Those who knew Karen will remember her as strong, determined, and endlessly supportive, a woman who led by example and devoted herself fully to her husband, children, grandchildren, and family. Her unwavering love, resilience, and kindness will continue to guide all who were fortunate to know her.

The family would like to thank the staff at OSF Hospice Care and the caregivers at Anam Care facility. To Chef Rico and team, “She loved the meals!!” Thanks to the Anam Cruisers, Candy, Jeff, and John, for their friendship.

A celebration of Karen’s life will be held on Tuesday, November 4, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home (1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, IL). Visitation will be from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to Nik’s Wish (https://nikolasritschelfoundation.org/), a nonprofit that brings joy to young adults battling cancer, in her honor.