In Loving Memory of Karen R. Porzak
Karen R. Porzak, a beloved resident of Palatine, IL, was born on July 25, 1938, in Chicago, and peacefully departed this life on November 20, 2025.
Karen was a devoted mother to her children: Joyce (Linden) Mayer and Thomas (Darlene) Porzak. She was the cherished grandmother of Nicole (Raymond) Mayer-Kopecky, Kristin (Micah) Porzak-Sovereign, and Jennifer Porzak. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren, Raymond and William Kopecky. Karen is also survived by her nieces: Wendy Conger (Donja Rodriguez), Robin Vargas, and Dawn Conger. She will be fondly remembered by her friend and long-time companion, Mark Hechter, as well as her good friend, Ginger Knowles.
She was preceded in death by her brother, James S. Habel; her sister, Bonnie R. Conger; and her parents, George A. and Florence S. (nee Blau) Habel.
Karen was an accomplished vocalist, lending her remarkable voice to numerous choirs, local theater group operettas, and community events.
A highly skilled artist, Karen exhibited her artwork at various art fairs and shows. She generously shared her talent by providing both group and private art instruction. Her paintings adorned the walls of local restaurants, banks, and theaters. Best known for her specialties in painting clowns and custom pet portraits, Karen’s artistic repertoire included depictions of animals, barns, landscapes, and a variety of artistic mediums.
In later years, Karen brought joy and entertainment to children’s birthday parties and holiday celebrations through her delightful characters, such as Miss Merry Berry, Wanda Witch, Touchdown Clown, and Mrs. Santa Claus. Karen (as Mrs. Santa Claus) participated in many parades and events alongside Santa Claus.
Karen placed great importance on her family and church, consistently reflecting her kind and positive nature. Her meaningful contributions and warm presence will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Karen R. Porzak, a beloved resident of Palatine, IL, was born on July 25, 1938, in Chicago, and peacefully departed this life on November 20, 2025.
Karen was a devoted mother to her children: Joyce (Linden) Mayer and Thomas (Darlene) Porzak. She was the cherished grandmother of Nicole (Raymond) Mayer-Kopecky, Kristin (Micah) Porzak-Sovereign, and Jennifer Porzak. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren, Raymond and William Kopecky. Karen is also survived by her nieces: Wendy Conger (Donja Rodriguez), Robin Vargas, and Dawn Conger. She will be fondly remembered by her friend and long-time companion, Mark Hechter, as well as her good friend, Ginger Knowles.
She was preceded in death by her brother, James S. Habel; her sister, Bonnie R. Conger; and her parents, George A. and Florence S. (nee Blau) Habel.
Karen was an accomplished vocalist, lending her remarkable voice to numerous choirs, local theater group operettas, and community events.
A highly skilled artist, Karen exhibited her artwork at various art fairs and shows. She generously shared her talent by providing both group and private art instruction. Her paintings adorned the walls of local restaurants, banks, and theaters. Best known for her specialties in painting clowns and custom pet portraits, Karen’s artistic repertoire included depictions of animals, barns, landscapes, and a variety of artistic mediums.
In later years, Karen brought joy and entertainment to children’s birthday parties and holiday celebrations through her delightful characters, such as Miss Merry Berry, Wanda Witch, Touchdown Clown, and Mrs. Santa Claus. Karen (as Mrs. Santa Claus) participated in many parades and events alongside Santa Claus.
Karen placed great importance on her family and church, consistently reflecting her kind and positive nature. Her meaningful contributions and warm presence will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Karen Ruth Porzak, please visit our flower store.
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