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Karen L. McDowell

September 19, 1958 - December 13, 2025
Visitation
Krause Funeral Home Brown Deer
7001 West Brown Deer Road
Milwaukee, WI 53223
Saturday 1/17, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Service
Krause Funeral Home Brown Deer
7001 West Brown Deer Road
Milwaukee, WI 53223
Saturday 1/17, 4:00 pm

Karen Lynne McDowell

September 19, 1958 – December 13, 2025

Karen Lynne McDowell (Kramer), 67, of Sturtevant, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 13, 2025, at 9:13 AM in Brown Deer, Wisconsin, after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer.

Karen was born on September 19, 1958, in Chicago, Illinois, to William and Audrey Kramer. Throughout her life, she wore many hats with pride and dedication—working as a paper machine operator, delivery driver, waitress, and bartender. In each role, she brought her strong work ethic and dependability.

Above all, Karen cherished her family. She was a devoted mother to her son, Ian McDowell, and found immense joy in being “Grandma” to her granddaughter, Cora. Her home was filled with love—not only for her family but also for her three beloved cats: Ping, Bailey, and Izzy, who were her constant companions.

Those who knew Karen remember her as kind, passionate, and genuinely funny. She had a gift for making people laugh and a heart that welcomed everyone. Her love and humor touched countless lives throughout her 67 years.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Audrey and William Kramer.

She is survived by her son, Ian McDowell; granddaughter, Cora McDowell; brothers, Greg and William Kramer; and her cherished feline companions.

Memorial Service
A celebration of Karen’s life will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, with visitation from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM, and a service at 4:00 PM, at Krause Funeral Home, 7001 West Brown Deer Road, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Visitation
Krause Funeral Home Brown Deer
7001 West Brown Deer Road
Milwaukee, WI 53223
Map
Saturday 1/17, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Service
Krause Funeral Home Brown Deer
7001 West Brown Deer Road
Milwaukee, WI 53223
Map
Saturday 1/17, 4:00 pm
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Karen Lynne McDowell September 19, 1958 – December 13, 2025 Karen Lynne McDowell (Kramer), 67, of Sturtevant, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 13, 2025, at 9:13 AM in Brown Deer, Wisconsin, after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. Karen was born on September 19, 1958, in Chicago, Illinois, to William and Audrey Kramer.Continue Reading

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Tree 4 trees were planted in memory of Karen McDowell
The Michael and Sheryl Schultz Family left a message on January 13, 2026:
May her memory be a blessing.
Anonymous left a message on January 15, 2026:
With Deepest Sympathy - Love, Darlene Kravcik, Dawn, DJ, Denise & Patty
White Designer's Choice was purchased for the family of Karen McDowell by Anonymous. Send Flowers
A tree was also planted in memory of Karen McDowell
The Darling Family left a message on January 11, 2026:
Our deepest condolences
Peaceful White Lilies Basket was purchased for the family of Karen McDowell by The Darling Family. Send Flowers
Brian & Jūnko Aucūnas left a message on December 29, 2025:
Our deepest condolences for your loss! Karen was a humorous and kind person whom we will not forget. John 5:28 & 29 is also comforting to remember.
Krause Funeral Home & Cremation Services left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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