Karen Hardtke-Hanes

Karen Hardtke Hanes (née Schreiber) passed away at home in Mayo, Florida, on February 4, 2026. She was born December 8, 1962, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Dennis and Katherine Schreiber, and immediately began living life entirely on her own terms.

Karen was estranged from her family, but anyone who truly knew her knows a few universal truths.

First: she loved animals-deeply, fiercely, and in quantities that defied basic math. Dogs, cats, birds... if it had fur, feathers, or needed rescuing, Karen probably loved it, named it something unusual, and treated it better than most people treat relatives.

Second: Karen loved being in love. She believed in soulmates. She was lucky enough to find more of them in one lifetime than most people would in a hundred, and she approached romance with optimism, passion, and the unshakable belief that this one might finally be the one. And sometimes it was. For a while.

Karen lived boldly, unapologetically, and with little concern for what anyone else thought-and that was kind of her superpower. She rejected advice, ignored warnings, and remained fiercely committed to being exactly who she was, for better or worse-usually worse, but always consistent.

She is survived by her mother, Katherine Schreiber (née Sikorski); her sister, Chris Wicki; her brother, Mike Schreiber; her daughter, Angela (Travis) Farrar; and her son, Andrew (Tara) Grundman. She is also survived by grandchildren she never met, but can now hopefully keep an eye on from above: Johnathan Farrar, Jade Trempe, Coletin Farrar, Nikayla Grundman, Paige Petroski, Makenzie Petroski, and Jaxon Sims; as well as two nieces, Brittany and Heather.

Karen was preceded in death by her father, Dennis "Mike" Schreiber.

In lieu of flowers, one might consider petting an animal, adopting one if you're brave, or falling recklessly in love-Karen would have approved of all three.

She will be remembered for her complicated life, fierce independence, and the unmistakable mark she left on those who truly knew her.

Her family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the friends in Mayo who treated her like family. We would also like to thank Larry-your kindness to Karen before you passed was felt deeply by her family this week. May you both rest in peace.
Friends may sign the online guest book at joepburnsfuneralhomes.com.

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