Lonny Lee Karr

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Lonny Lee Karr, 66, in his Traer home on December 17, 2024. Lonny was born on September 27, 1958, in Waterloo, Iowa, to Robert and Sharon Karr (Hansen), Lon lived a life filled with kindness, positivity, and love for the outdoors.

Lon grew up in Traer alongside his siblings Todd (Diane) Karr, Rob Karr, and Darsi (Tim) Huddleson. Their bond remained strong and unshaken throughout his life, staying close until his very last breath.

He graduated from North Tama High School in 1977, followed by further studies at Hawkeye Tech in Waterloo.

In 1985, Lon married Terrill (Anderson), with whom he shared 38 years of marriage. Though they recently went their separate ways, their family bond stood strong. Lon’s pride and joy were his four children Hannah (Josh) Armtrout  of Discovery Bay, California, Spencer (Morgan) Karr of Pleasant Hill, Iowa, Marshall (Dayla) Karr of Janesville, Iowa, and Molly (Eric) Ramirez of Dysart, Iowa. They were his world, and he never missed an opportunity to boast about their accomplishments.

Lon’s greatest joy came from being “Papa” to his 13 grandchildren, with one more eagerly anticipated later this month. He always greeted his grandchildren with a laffy taffy and tales of the boogie man. 

A true jack-of-all-trades, Lon spent most of his career as a plumber with Young Plumbing and Heating. He also dabbled in farming, sales, and manufacturing with stints at Berger Farms, Vokoun’s, Tama Sale Barn, Hinson Manufacturing, and Blackhawk Engineering. Whatever the job, Lon was known for his tireless work ethic and his patient approach to mentoring others. He remained dedicated to his work and continued contributing right up until his final day.

His garage was always open, and you could usually find him there—beer in hand—sharing stories with friends or looking forward to the next big fishing or hunting day. When he wasn’t outdoors, he lent a helping hand to a neighbor or friend. 

Lon will be remembered for his ability to make anyone feel comfortable, his love for kids, and Busch Light … and a koozie. He lived simply but gave generously, leaving behind not only a family who adored him but also a community that was better for having known him.

As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life well-lived, a life filled with fishing stories, a good sense of humor, and endless garage gatherings. Rest easy, Lon. Your selflessness will remain with us always.

A visitation to honor Lon’s life will be held on Friday, January 10th, 2025, from 4-6 pm at Overton Funeral Home in Traer. The visitation will be followed by a Celebration of Life at the Traer Golf Course, per Lon’s request. In lieu of flowers, please raise a beer in his memory.