Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
About
FUNERAL HOME
Karen Dawson Obituary
She was born March 16, 1959, in Woodstock, to George and Jane (Schmitt) Mann. She married James Dawson on Oct. 3, 1981, in Johnsburg, at St. John the Baptist Church.
She graduated from Alverno College in 1981 and started a career as a computer programmer at Centegra Hospital – Woodstock. After starting a family, she chose to become a homemaker, caring for her two daughters. In addition to being a full-time mother, she did cake decorating, daycare in her home and substitute teaching. She always enjoyed gardening, reading and bird watching. Most of all, she enjoyed the company of friends and family and the companionship of her dog, Ellie. Her wonderful spirit, generosity and perseverance made so many blessed to call her a friend. She will be missed greatly by all.
Survivors include her husband of 29 years, James Dawson of McHenry; her two daughters, Amanda Dawson of McHenry and Lisa Dawson of Winfield; her parents, George and Jane Mann; three sisters, Darlene (Larry) Bergquist, Cindy (Kevin) Goulet and Arlet (Dan) Gallagher; and 14 nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents, George and Martha Schmitt.
The visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 1, at Colonial Funeral Home, 591 Ridgeview Drive, McHenry. The visitation will continue from 9:30 a.m. until the Memorial Mass is celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 2, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 2302 W. Church, Johnsburg. Interment will be in St. John the Baptist Cemetery.
Memorials would be appreciated in her name to Hospice of Northeastern Illinois, 405 Lake Zurich Road, Barrington, IL 60010, the Scleroderma Foundation or a local animal shelter.
For information, call the funeral home at 815-385-0063.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Karen Dawson
Barry, Maureen, and Family Thomson
December 12, 2010
Karen was the best neighbor we ever had. She became a good friend talking about gardening, raising kids, and everyday life. She always had a kind attitude to every subject. I will miss her whenever I garden, look at the Blue-birds flying by, the wild life that stroll past our back yards. She loved to see them all. Jim & the girls continue to be the best neighbors and friends you could ever live next to. They are the people you can count on always.
Linda Salvatori
December 6, 2010
As a childhood friend of Arlet's, I remember the love and sisterhood that Arlet, Karen, Dar, and Cindy shared. Know that our hearts and thoughts are with you all at this time and that prayers will remain with you through the days ahead. Love, Linda (Bartmann) Salvatori
Leon Boys
December 5, 2010
We are all thankful for the good times we had hanging out with all the Mann's. We will miss Karen.
December 4, 2010
When I think of Karen, the word "kind" always comes to mind. The world would be a much better place if there were more like Karen. Jim, Amanda and Lisa I am so sorry for your loss. You will be in my prayers. I will try to be like Karen going forward, kind, gracious and non-judgemental. She had the most beautiful spirit. Whenever you talked to her, you always came away in a better mood! She was truly one of the nicest people ever! Patti Althoff Siwicki (Elk Grove Village, IL)
December 3, 2010
We are so very sorry for your loss. We are neighbors and my husband Dan went to school with Karen and had always said that she was the nicest person he had ever met. We don't think Karen ever met a person she didn't like. We will remember her fondly. You are all in our prayers.
Dan and Sandy Sabielny
December 3, 2010
My heart goes out to your entire family-
Arlet and I grew up together and were friends.
I am keeping you all close in my prayers.......
Beverly (Hiller) Hartig
Donna Hultberg
December 2, 2010
One beautiful Daughter, Wife and Mother.
How lucky we all are to have known her. How blessed we are to have had her as a friend.
An angel has walked among us.
My Prayers are with you
rob thomas
December 1, 2010
although it has been years, i remember her like yesterday! my heart goes out to the families, my prayers also.
Joe Weyland
December 1, 2010
In love, light and prayer I remember Karen and her beautiful spirit....my thoughts are with the entire family, she was very, very loved!
The Nusser Family
December 1, 2010
Karen has given us the precious gift of her friendship. We are all better for knowing her. We pray for God's Peace and Grace in your hearts. You will continue to remain in our daily prayers. All of Our Love.
Michael & Diane Etten
December 1, 2010
To Mr. & Mrs Mann, Darlene, Cindy & Arlet, Jim, Amanda & Lisa,
We send you all our love and prayers during this difficult time and are here for you.
To Mr. & Mrs. Mann, Karen conveyed the beauty of the both of you by her character, her smiles, laughter and loving personality. Each trait a precious reflection of the loving upbringing both of you instilled and developed within her.
To Darlene, Cindy & Arlet, hold close the beautiful memories and loving imprints each of you have been gifted that your wonderful sister, Karen provided.
And to Jim, Amanda & Lisa, we pray and are here for you during this difficult time.
May each of you continue to cherish the wonderful times you have each personally had together. May God bless...
CJ M
December 1, 2010
You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Tammy Zielnicki
December 1, 2010
Jim, Karen, Amanda, Lisa, Mr & Mrs. Mann,
Karen was my Dearest, Sweetest, Longest friend I have ever had. From High School, both of us Maid of Honor at each others wedding, the births of our children, our vacations together, LOTS of laughter, and lots of tears, Karen was always there for me and my family. Karen truly is an Angel. She will be greatly missed by all of us but she has left us with so many wonderful memories. We will cherish them forever! I love you Karen...my heart is breaking but this too will be healed with all the loving memories you have given to me. A great big hug to all of you and I look forward to seeing you next week!
December 1, 2010
George and Jane. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. We are so sorry for your loss.
-Ben Wolfe
Rob & Rita Rudinger
December 1, 2010
I am so sorry for your loss. I have so many WONDERFUL-PRECIOUS memories of Karen growing up.(Of all the Mann sisters) All the fun we had playing. (grew up together across the street). My heart goes out to all the family. May you find PEACE in the Lord and COMFORT in knowing Karen rests in the Lords eternal Love. My prayers are with all of you!! All my love Rita (Schaller) Rudinger
Cheryl (Thacker) Kalsch
December 1, 2010
I was very sorry to read of Karen's passing. I remember her from High School and she was beautiful inside and out. May our Lord grant you peace at this difficult time. Death runs deep but love runs deeper and He will watch over you, Jim, your daughters, and family. May loving, happy memories of Karen bring you peace and comfort.
Roger Paddock
December 1, 2010
George and Jane. My thoughts and prayers are with you and with your family during this difficult time. God bless you and hold all of you in the palm of his hand.
mary seaver-welzen
December 1, 2010
Jim,George, Jane, Darlene, Amanda,Lisa
Please accept my most deepest sympathies on Karen. Karen was such an great example and inspiration to me when I sustained a severe tramic head injury. She showed me through her pain that we could conquer and be an inspiration to others. I love sitting with her a festival of praise when she could come. I feel a very deep loss ,but know she is in the hands of Jesus and her job on earth is done. Jim , I pray that you know you were her gardian angel besides a devoted husband,and your children were the stength. Karen I will miss you ,but I know I will see you in heaven someday.
Carmel Ray
November 30, 2010
She was a wonderful person who touched so many lives with the happiness that she always brought into a room. Her happiness and friendliness has been an inspiration to us all. She was loved by all and will be greatly missed.
Mary and Bill Winkel
November 30, 2010
During the difficult times ahead, may the memories of Karen and her love get you through. Our thoughts are with you.
Brad Schmitt
November 30, 2010
Jim, George, Jane, and families,
Please accept my deepest sympathies on the passing of your beloved Karen. I have known Karen for many years and can honestly say that I have never witnessed her mistreat or speak ill of another human being. This, and the dignity with which she carried the burden of her terrible illness is truly an inspiration for everyone. My life has been enriched by knowing Karen.
May you find peace in comfort in the words and deeds of all that share your sense of loss during these difficult days.
Susan Anna
November 30, 2010
I remember riding our bikes up to the Manns house to either go swimming or play in the playhouse...so many stories. She was a extraordinary woman always with a smile. Take comfort in the memories that you have as noone will ever be able to take them away from you be it daughter, son, sister, mom, wife or just a friend.
Julie Kasar Twilling
November 30, 2010
Dear Jim, Amanda, Lisa, Aunt Jane and Uncle George, I have a million memories that I'm thankful for, of all of us having so much fun. Christmas visits, summers, weddings, funerals, family reunions, skiing at Gander Mountain! I'm thinking of all of you and praying that you feel God's peace and strength through the next days and months. Love
November 30, 2010
Jim, Amanda, Lisa, Jane and George...We will be with you in spirit as you say your goodbyes to our precious niece. What wonderful memories she left us. God be with you all. Carol and Rod
Lisa Cote
November 30, 2010
Have faith that the inspiration and strength that Karen so loving shared with all of us will be rewarded mightily as she is triumphantly welcomed into Heaven! AMEN
November 30, 2010
Jim,Amanda,Lisa You have all lost the heart of life. I lost the beautiful friend I"v known since before you married. I remember the times seeing her instil love and beauty in everything she did.I shall miss, but remember her always. God be with all of you. Love BettyAnn Minor
Rick Schaller
November 30, 2010
So sorry to hear of your loss! I have such fond memories of the entire "Mann Clan" growing up - you all were such a big part of my life. Karen will be missed dearly!! May the great memories shared give you peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Rick, Tracy, and Alyssa Schaller
November 30, 2010
It was with great sorrow that we heard of the news regarding Karen's passing. In the face of adversity Karen showed resiliance and grace. She was a truly wonderful woman and will be missed greatly. Our prayers are with all of you at this time.
November 30, 2010
I am so sorry for your loss. I have so many WONDERFUL-PRECIOUS memories of Karen growing up.(Of all the Mann sisters) All the fun we had playing. (grew up together across the street). My heart goes out to all the family. May you find PEACE in the Lord and COMFORT in knowing Karen rests in the Lords eternal Love. My prayers are with all of you!!
Sharon/Dave Rehnberg
November 30, 2010
Jim, Amanda and Lisa, Our thoughts and prayers. I will miss the cards and letters we sent each other. She was a card person like me. I will miss waiting for the next note from her. Karen was an awesome person. Our college years were such fun. Who would think 29 years latter the 5 of us Kathy, Mary Sue and Jane myself and Karen would still be in contact with each other. Karen's smile was infectious along with her laugh and kindness I will never forget.
November 30, 2010
Dear Jane and George and family,
Andy and I send our sympathies at the loss of your brave and loving daughter, Karen. Bless her heart, she's at peace now. Your family are in our prayers.
Anne and Andy Lunk
Becky & John Nickel
November 30, 2010
I am so sorry to hear about Karen's passing. She was a good friend & neighbor for years (we lived across the street from the Mann's growing up). I remember playing school with she, her sisters & my sister & spending hours swimming in their pool. Such a wonderful person, she'll be missed dearly. God bless Karen & all of her family. Becky (Schaller) Nickel
DANIEL COLLINS SR.
November 30, 2010
NEVER MET A BETTER WOMAN IN MY LIFE .. GOD BLESS THERE WHOLE FAMILY
Roland/Mary Sue Klotz
November 30, 2010
Jim, Amanda and Lisa,
We were so sorry to hear about Karen. She is a dear friend and we created many memories not only in college, but in the years after. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
November 30, 2010
sorry to hear about karen s passing to soon for such a good person live her memories stay strong she is with god now love kerry and gwyn schultz
Showing 1 - 35 of 35 results
Make a Donation
in Karen Dawson's name
Memorial Events
for Karen Dawson
Funeral services provided by:
Colonial Funeral Home & Crematory591 Ridgeview Drive, McHenry, IL 60050-7025
How to support Karen's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Karen Dawson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
