Karen Lucille Stabler

Neponset - Karen Lucille (Rick) Stabler, 77, of Neponset, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 11, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Karen was born on January 22, 1947, on a farm outside of Dover, the daughter of Clarence and Lucille (Bickett) Rick. She graduated from Princeton High School, Class of 1965. During her school years, she discovered her passion for caring for others and developed a lifelong love of animals-especially her cherished horse, Buck. Gardening and canning the fresh produce she harvested were among her favorite pastimes, particularly because they brought the family together, and her homemade treats became staples at every gathering. One of her fondest memories was attending the Bickett Reunions, which combined two of her favorite things-family and home-cooked meals-reminding her of her childhood. After high school, Karen dedicated her career to serving others as a Certified Nursing Assistant. She was beloved by both staff and residents for her compassion, dedication, and warm smile. Known for her tireless work ethic, she took immense joy in helping those in need. On November 19, 1966, Karen married Larry Stabler at the Dover Congregational Church. They raised three children in their family home in Sheffield, sharing 58 years of marriage before her passing. Karen demonstrated an extraordinary will to live, bravely battling cancer for over 20 years with grace and determination-drawing her strength from her devotion to her children and grandchildren. Karen treasured her family above all else and adored spending time with her grandchildren. She was known for her remarkable home cooking, her love for her dogs, and her unwavering kindness to all who crossed her path. Although generally quiet, Karen had a wonderful sense of humor and a bit of sass that she shared with those closest to her. During her retirement, she found peace on the family centennial farm in Neponset, enjoying every aspect of farm life and cherishing the simple joys that made each day special. Survivors include her husband, Larry Stabler of Neponset, IL; Children and grand children; daughter Tracie Johnson of Washington, IL, and her children, Maddie and Olivia (LuLu); her son, Jason (Ashley) Stabler of Sheffield, IL, and children, Emma, Abby, and Luke and her son Justin (Bethany) Stabler of Neponset, IL, and children, Oliver, Benny, and Lainey; her sister, Cheryl (Rich) Barnett of Tiskilwa, IL. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Lucille Rick; her brother, Don Rick; and her in-laws, Claude and Lottie Stabler. Memorials may be directed to Illinois Cancer Care or OSF Hospice, reflecting Karen's generous spirit and her commitment to helping others. She will be deeply missed and forever loved. A Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 23 at Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. and Monuments in Princeton, IL. Friends and family are invited to gather and celebrate her remarkable life. Funeral services to honor Karen's life will be held on Friday, January 24 at 11:00 a.m. at Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. & Monuments. Officiated by Pastor Michael Slutz. Burial at a later date and time, where Karen will be laid to rest surrounded by family at a private ceremony. Arrangements by Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. & Monuments Online condolences may be directed to www.norbergfh.com

Karen Lucille Stabler

January 22, 1947 - January 11, 2025