OBITUARY

Karen Joann Stern of St. Clair, MO departed this life in Sullivan, MO on Sunday, June 28, 2026, having reached the age of eighty-seven years, eleven months and fifteen days. Karen was born in Potosi, MO on July 13, 1938, daughter of Carl Hutchings and Sylvia Hutchings nee Weiss. On January 21, 1961 she was united in marriage to Richard James Stern and four children came to bless this union.

Karen is survived by two sons, Kurt J. Stern of Sullivan, MO and Rick Stern of St. Louis, MO; by her daughter, Traci Monk and husband, Scott, of St. Clair, MO; by one sister, Beverly Castelli of TX; by her grandchildren, Erich Monk, Addison Monk, Meghan Monk and Tyler Stern; by her great-grandchildren, Everlee Monk, Leo Monk and Colter Monk; by family friend and caregiver, Patrice Thebeau; by nieces, great-nieces and nephews, cousins and many friends.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Sylvia Hutchings; by her husband, Richard Stern; by one son, Erich Stern; and by one sister, Sharron Kelly.

Karen was a Christian and believing in the Lord as her Savior. During her working career, earlier in her life, she was employed by various hospitals and doctor’s offices as a lab technician. On the family farm in Bland, MO she enjoyed raising, training and breeding horses, dogs and other farm animals. Karen also enjoyed working in the vegetable garden and would preserve and can the various produce. What meant most to her was time spent with family and she cherished the time spent with her children and grandchildren. The love they shared and many precious memories they created together will be held dear in their hearts.

A kind and loving mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, great-aunt, cousin and treasured friend, she will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved her.

A private committal will take place at a later date. The family entrusted the care of their loved one to Russell Colonial Funeral Home in St. Clair, MO.