Ilka Marie Keul-Konen

Ilka Keul-Konen, 58, of Waterford, PA, passed away peacefully at home on May 6, 2025. She was born on August 15, 1966, in Erie, PA. She is preceded in death by her mother, Marianne Keul in 1996, her father, Kurt Keul in 2005 and many aunts and uncles in the states and abroad.
Ilka is survived by her husband, Kevin Konen, her brother Toby Keul (wife Diana), step-daughter Arin Konen, step-granddaughter Emily Massing, her God children, Lydia, Katie, Holly, and several cousins.
Ilka graduated from Strong Vincent High School in 1984. Soon after graduation, she moved to Alabama where she spent most of her adult life. She built her career as a retail manager through a variety of different genres. Several years ago, she found a love that she had never had before when she reconnected with a friend. This love prompted her to move back to Pennsylvania. In September 2021, she married Kevin Konen, and they made their home in Waterford where they doted on their furry family, dogs Axel and Chewy and cat Lilah. Kevin brought her so much joy and made her feel loved every day.
Ilka loved flowers and gardening. The deck that surrounds their home is full of planters cascading with blossoms. If there was an animal in need, she would tend to it or most likely adopt it. She found joy in preparing meals and finding loving gifts to celebrate the people in her life. She was always looking out for her family and friends, checking in on them and being there for them in times of need.
She was most happy outdoors in the fresh air or swimming at the lake. Ilka loved to travel to see family and friends. She and Kevin even took their camper to go to festivals
A memorial service will be determined at a later date. Funeral arrangements were made by the Russell C. Schmidt & Son Funeral Home, Inc. 5000 Wattsburg Road, Erie, PA 16504.
Memorial contributions can be made to Shriners Children's Erie - 1645 W 8th St, Erie, PA 16505.
Please visit www.SchmidtFuneralHomeErie.com to leave a condolence on Ilka's Tribute Page.