Karen LaVerne Leinonen

Karen LaVerne Leinonen, 83, Beach Park, passed away in Waukegan, Illinois on October 28, 2023. Karen was born in Waukegan in 1940 to George & Ellen (Korbi) Guzauski.
A devoted mother of four boys who enjoyed warm and sunny weather with her husband Bill that included many years on their boat in the Waukegan Harbor and winters in Marathon, Florida. She enjoyed watching cooking shows and remaining in close contact with High School friends near and far. Karen was very passionate about her Finnish heritage and even stayed in touch with her friends in Finland.
Bill met the love of his life Karen at a local gathering in Waukegan while she was out with girlfriends one evening. She advised Bill that if he wished to pursue dating her, he would have to start going to Church. Well, that seemed to work out well as ten months later, they were husband and wife. They were married at St. Mark's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Waukegan on November 19, 1960.
Karen was preceded in death by her parents, George & Ellen, and is survived by her husband William, her four sons and families; William (Carrie), Alan (Kristie), Terry (Cissi), and Russ. As well as six grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and her beloved sister Joan (Hal) Satterfield.
As per the family's request, no funeral or memorial service will be held. Contributions can be made to any charitable diabetes organization of your choice.