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Private Celebration of life will be held.
Karen Jean Lake
Karen Jean Lake (née Rylander) passed away on October 16, 2025 at age 70. She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Gary, her daughter Allison (Kyle Steinkamp), cousins, nieces and nephews, and many friends.
Karen was born to Roderick and Ardyce Jean Rylander on July 8, 1955, and grew up alongside her older brother Eric and beloved younger brother Jon. As a native of Milwaukee, she attended Hamilton High School and later UWM. Karen had a passion for the arts, gardening, and spending time with family. She was known as a sweet and caring soul to all who knew her.
Karen is preceded in death by her parents, brothers, and daughter Jessica. In lieu of flowers, donations are appreciated to the Wilson Park Senior Center, where Karen spent several years creating works of art in glass and textiles, with cherished friends. A celebration of life is being planned by her family with details to follow.
Click here to donate to the Wilson Park Senior Center in Karen’s Memory.
My deepest condolences to Gary, her beloved husband and Allison, her beautiful daughter. It is with a grieving heart that I write this message. Karen was my lovely cousin. I will always remember with great fondness being in her wedding., sharing time with her ( and a large group of others) in Shawano at Gary’s family’s farm, and visits at our family reunions.