Karen Smalley
  • Born on: January 9, 1961
  • Departed on: December 20, 2018
  • Resided in: Palo, IA

Karen Smalley

Karen A. Smalley, 57, of Palo died Thursday December 20, 2018 at her sister’s home in Palo. There will be an outdoor memorial service in the spring.

Survivors include a daughter Nicole (Neil) Baier of Grimes, two sons Reece (Cindi), and Ryan all of Waterloo; three sisters, Sharon (Doug) Harris of Georgia, Carol (Jim) Murley of Palo, and Cheryl Landis of Cedar Rapids; two brothers, Bill (Jo) Landis of Hiawatha and Bob Landis of Waterloo. She is also survived by four grandchildren, Skyler, Camdyn, Jace, and Savanna; her significant other Matthew Kohn of Tulsa. OK., her former husband Rusty Smalley of Waterloo, and her cat Sassy. She was preceded in death by her parents, a nephew Chad Murley, and her dog, Gracie.

Karen was born on January 9, 1961 in Waterloo, the daughter of Billie and Donna Ferrie Landis. Karen worked as a manager in food service for many years.

She enjoyed cooking, baking, shopping for earrings, listening to rock and roll music, watching the Kansas City Chiefs Football, and especially the time spent with her beloved family and many friends. 

Karen was small, but was a strong fighter until the very end. Her smile and optimistic attitude carried her through the hard days. The family would like to thank everyone who helped her the last few years, from taking her to Dr. appointments, just vising with her, or going to get her a chicken fajita taco or taco burger. She appreciated everyone’s kindness.
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