Karen Leigh Baldwin

Karen Leigh Baldwin, 70, of Northbrook, Illinois, passed away on November 29, 2025.
Born on October 1, 1956, Karen was the beloved daughter of Marilyn Bergquist and a cherished member of a large and close-knit family. She grew up in Wilmette, Illinois, alongside her siblings-Peter Bergquist, John Bergquist, Jane Danowit, and Mark Bergquist-forming bonds rooted in loyalty, humor, and shared history.
From an early age, Karen developed a deep and enduring love for horses, a passion that shaped much of her life. She was an accomplished trainer who dedicated herself to teaching students in the horse-jumping circuit, helping young riders grow in both skill and confidence. Karen was not only a gifted instructor but a talented competitor; she proudly competed in a national hunter-jumper competition at Madison Square Gardens, a highlight of her riding career and a testament to her dedication to the sport.
Karen's greatest joy in life was her son, William Baldwin, whom she loved deeply and unconditionally. She took immense pride in being his mother, and their relationship remained the center of her world.
She will be profoundly missed by her family and all who were fortunate enough to share in her life. She will be laid to rest at Memorial Park in Skokie on Monday, December 15th, at 11 a.m.