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Karen Baker
1946 - 2026
FUNERAL HOME
Karen Baker Obituary
Monticello - Karen K. Baker, 79, of Monticello went to be with Jesus on Friday (March 27, 2026) at the Piatt County Nursing Home. She was surrounded by her family.
Karen was born April 24, 1946, to Douglas L. and Velma B. Gardner, in Paxton.
Karen was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Dale and Bob Unzicker; and sister, Pat DeLuca.
She is survived by her daughters, Gina Shreve and Cindy (Trent) Gilbert; and son, Sam Baker. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Haley Baker, Tristan Baker, Hunter Baker and Tripp Baker. Also surviving are her sisters, Carol, Jean, Nancy and Pearl; and brother, Tom.
Karen graduated from Urbana High School in 1964. She also completed cosmetology school the same year. Karen moved to Monticello in 1974, where she was a hairdresser. After retiring from that 32-year career, she was a bank teller for First Mid Illinois Bank for 11 years. She also worked for her best friend Mary Anne at Doty's Jewelry Shop on the square.
After Karen retired, she devoted much of her time volunteering at Willow Tree Mission. She went through training to help at the Safe House as well.
Karen will always be remembered for her love of animals, her sweet smile and her compassion, love and generosity for helping others in need. She loved her family fiercely.
In lieu of services, Karen's family will be celebrating her 80th birthday in April. There will be an open house at Gina's home in Monticello on April 25 from 2 to 4 p.m. Please come by, have a piece of cake, and share a memory of our mother/Nana with us as we celebrate her birthday.
In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation to Town Square Hospice in Mom's name, we would be honored.
Condolences may be sent to the family at mackey-wrightfuneralhome.com.
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Mackey-Wright Funeral Home - Monticello215 E. Washington St., Monticello, IL 61856
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