Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Karen LaMonte Klein
1942 - 2025
FUNERAL HOME
Karen Klein Obituary
July 2, 1942 - July 19, 2025
Karen LaMonte Klein, 83, of Ruskin, Florida, passed away on July 19, 2025.
Born on July 2, 1942, in Bloomington, Illinois, she graduated from Fairbury Cropsey High School and Illinois State University. Karen lived a life full of love, laughter, and purpose. She was a woman whose warmth and energy touched everyone she met. As a devoted elementary school teacher, Karen spent decades nurturing young minds-teaching not only reading, writing and math, but also kindness, curiosity and the simple joy of learning. Her classroom was a place of light and encouragement, where every child felt seen, supported and valued.
Karen's deepest happiness came from her family. She shared a beautiful and enduring love that spanned 61 years of marriage with her husband, George. Together, they built a life filled with joy, raising two sons, Heath and Brigg, who brought her endless pride. Her granddaughters, Olivia and Alena, along with her beloved daughter-in-law, held a special place in her heart. She adored them beyond words and cherished every moment she spent with them.
Karen was a lifelong lover of books. Whether she was reading to her students or losing herself in the pages of a favorite novel at home, books were her constant companions. She found beauty in words, meaning in stories, and peace in quiet moments spent reading.
She was also a spirited sports fan-cheering with heart, whether in the stands or at home. Having grown up on a farm, her love for animals was boundless. She had a gentle way with every furry friend she met, offering kindness and comfort without hesitation. Animals seemed to sense her warmth and trusted her instantly. Her home was always filled with the companionship of pets, who brought her happiness and affection in return.
Known for her warmth, Karen was also a gracious hostess, welcoming friends and family into her home with open arms, delicious meals, and a spirit that made everyone feel cherished and at ease.
To know Karen was to be welcomed, encouraged, and uplifted. She lived with grace, humor, and an open heart. She believed in showing up-for her family, her friends, her students, and her community-and embraced it with a joyful and caring heart.
Her absence leaves a quiet space in the hearts of many, but her spirit lives on in the lives she shaped, the joy she shared, and the love she gave so freely.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Karen Klein
Sponsored by National Cremation and Burial Society - Ruskin.
4 Entries
Marsha Hiter (Taylor)
Yesterday
My uncle, Gene Taylor, was Karen´s stepfather, which made us cousins. After my grandmother passed, we no longer had family dinners and I lost track of Karen and George. Her obituary is a very nice tribute to her. Sending condolences to her family and friends.
Mary Schrepfer Vancil
Yesterday
I remember going to her and my cousin George's wedding. Mom daddy and all 9 of us kids were on the way and that song "Going to the Chapel" came on the radio. We all thought it was very cool . My deepest sympathy
Love Mary Schrepfer Vancil
Helen Oneal Streeper
Yesterday
So very sorry to hear of Karen's passing. My prayers and thoughts are with all of her family. I'm a cousin (our mom's were sisters, my mom was Hilda) and we had many great times together.
Rick and Dee Phillips
Yesterday
Will miss her greatly she was always welcoming to us God bless
Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results
Make a Donation
in Karen Klein's name
Memorial Events
for Karen Klein
Funeral services provided by:
National Cremation and Burial Society - Ruskin308 East College Ave, Ruskin, FL 33570
How to support Karen's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Karen Klein's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
