Karen Elizabeth Berning of Arnold, MO departed this life in Arnold on Thursday, August 22, 2024, having reached the age of seventy years, eleven months and eighteen days. Karen was born in Springfield, IL on September 4, 1953, daughter of Ray E. Ballard and Mary Elizabeth Ballard nee Tuey. On May 16, 1992 she was united to Bruce Edward Berning and two children came to bless this union. Karen is survived by her husband, Bruce Berning of Arnold, MO; by her children, Selena Berning of Luebbering, MO and Adam Berning and wife, Alicia, of Luebbering, MO; by her sister, Kayla Ballard and wife, Kim McKelvie, of Salem, MO; by one grandchild, Xzavier Berger of Luebbering, MO; by cousins and many friends. Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Mary Ballard; and by one grandchild, Benjamin Berning. Karen was a Christian of the Catholic faith and member of St. Clare Catholic Church in St. Clair, MO. During her working career she was a Respiratory Therapist for a hospital in Decatur, IL. Karen was a life member of Beta Sima Phi, having pledged in March of 1974 and also a member of the Salem Eagles. She enjoyed doing crafts and cross-stitching. Karen also enjoyed baking and tending to her flower garden. What meant most to her was time spent with family. Her children and grandchildren held a very special place in her heart, as she did in theirs. The love they shared and many precious memories they created together will be cherished by them all forever. A kind and loving wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, sister, sister-in-law, cousin and treasured friend, she will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved her. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 PM Tuesday, August 27, 2024 at Russell Colonial Funeral Home in St. Clair, MO. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home at 10:00 AM Wednesday, August 28, 2024 with Father Eric Kunz officiating. Interment will be in Crestview Memorial Park in St. Clair, MO. Memorial may be made to Alternative Hospice or the Alzheimer's Association.