Karen Huneke

Karen Ellis Huneke, a beloved sister, aunt, educator and devoted pet lover, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on February 10, 1948, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Karen was a bright light to all who knew her and dedicated her life to nurturing the minds and spirits of others.
A cherished educator, Karen spent an extraordinary 41 years teaching at St. John the Baptist School, where her passion for imparting knowledge and her love for the Catholic Faith touched countless lives. She found joy in guiding young hearts and instilling values that would shape future generations.
In her personal life, Karen was united in marriage to her loving husband, Jerome G. Huneke, with whom she shared many wonderful years. Together, they created a home filled with love, laughter, and shared interests.
Karen had a profound affection for German Shepherds, dedicating much of her time to raising and showing these magnificent dogs at a competitive level. Her expertise allowed her to serve as a judge in various competitions, and she also took great pleasure in teaching children dog training through the Dearborn County 4-H program. Her enthusiasm for these magnificent animals mirrored her talents as a nurturing mentor.
A music lover at heart, Karen played the guitar at 9 am Mass at St. John's for many years and had a particular fondness for the band Alabama. Even as her memory began to fade, the sound of their melodies would evoke her spirit, and she would sing along with unmistakable joy.
Karen is preceded in death by her devoted husband, Jerome G. Huneke, and her loving parents, William and Wilma (née Bechtol) Ellis. She is survived by her two brothers, Lester Ellis and James (Sheila) Ellis; her beloved nieces and nephews: Angela (John) Snyder, Kristie Ennis, Laura (Brian) Le Blanc, Karen McEven, and Kevin Hellman; as well as her cherished great-nieces and nephews: Alexis (Kevin) Reece, Ethan (Mary) Snyder, Evan (Charissa) Snyder, and Emily Snyder.
In honor of Karen's spirit and her unwavering faith, the Rosary will be held at St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, located at 23455 Gavin Lane, Lawrenceburg, IN 47025, on September 16, 2025, beginning at 10:40 AM. Following the Rosary, a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 AM, with Fr. Hollowell officiating, providing a moment of reflection, gratitude, and remembrance of a life beautifully lived. A celebration of her life will follow the mass, allowing friends and family to gather and share their fondest memories.
Burial will take place at St. Joseph Cemetery in Kentucky at a later date, where she will be laid to rest alongside her husband.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to be made to St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, with representatives from the funeral home available to assist on the day of the service. For those who cannot attend, contributions may be sent to St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (mailing address) at 542 Walnut Street, Lawrenceburg, IN 47205.
Karen's legacy of love, compassion, and dedication will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched. She will be dearly missed but fondly remembered.
Services
Recitation of the Rosary
Tuesday
September 16, 2025
10:40 AM
St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross
23670 Salt Fork Road
Bright, IN 47025
Funeral Mass
Tuesday
September 16, 2025
11:00 AM
St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross
23670 Salt Fork Road
Bright, IN 47025