Karen Sue Altekruse

Karen Sue (Priegel) Altekruse, age 59, passed away on January 20, 2025, in Key Largo, FL, following a months-long battle with pancreatic cancer. Karen was fulfilling many of her “bucket list” items at the time she left this world. Karen was born on March 23, 1965, in Milwaukee, WI to Donald and Irene (Dwornick) Priegel, the youngest of 6 children. During her childhood, the family moved to Plymouth, WI and Karen’s youth was spent there. 

In 2013, Karen met K.C. Altekruse, and the two married in 2015. K.C. encouraged Karen’s adventurous spirit and the two spent hours outdoors adventuring in the Boundary Waters, kayaking, off road cycling and sailing. They purchased a home in Greenville and have filled it with gardens of all kinds, and outbuildings for K.C.’s workshop.

Karen is survived by her husband K.C.; K.C.’s sons Ben and Jason (Alyssa); her mother Irene; her five siblings: Sandee (Michael), Michael, Heide (Rich), Pat (John), and Deb (Jim). In addition, she is survived by a number of nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her father Donald.

A memorial service will take place on Saturday February 8, 2025, at 2:00pm at First English Lutheran Church-North Site, 6331 N Ballard Road, Appleton. Friends and family may gather at the church from 12:00pm until the service begins. Please wear fun socks in Karen’s memory!

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital in Karen’s memory.