A Livestream and Recording of Karen's Funeral Service will be available on the church's YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@stjohnlutheranpomeroy/streams

Karen K. Schwardt, age 76, of Pomeroy, passed away on Monday, January 15, 2024, at Paula J. Baber Hospice Home in Fort Dodge, Iowa.

Karen Kay Gehrt was born September 12, 1947 in Calhoun County, IA. She was the daughter of Clarence and Nellie (Barker) Gehrt. She graduated from Pomeroy High School in 1965. Karen married Richard Schwardt on June 21, 1969, at St. John Lutheran Church in Pomeroy. They were blessed with two sons, Jason and Brad. They settled near Pomeroy where they farmed and raised their family. Karen worked part time at the Pomeroy Library where she did story hour.

Karen was a member of St. John Lutheran Church the Ladies Society and was a past member of the Pomeroy AmVETS. She taught Sunday School for many years, volunteered with BINGO at the Pomeroy Care Center and helped with Freedom Quilts. Karen was an avid reader and enjoyed cooking and crafts. She will especially be remembered for her great talent of cake decorating. She made beautiful cakes for all occasions for family and friends.

Survivors include her husband, Richard of Pomeroy; sons, Jason Schwardt of Pomeroy and Brad Schwardt of Litchfield, IL; sister, LaDonna Norris of Mason City; brother, Roger (Kathleen) Gehrt of Pomeroy; brother-in-law, Robert (Renee) Schwardt of Pomeroy; many nieces, nephews, cousins, adopted grandkids and dear close friends.

Karen was preceded in death by her father, Clarence; mother, Nellie; infant brother, Richard, and sister-in-law, Marlene Bridwell.