Will County Gazette

Frankfort - Karen L. Barnaby, aged 88, passed away on August 6, 2025. Originally from Frankfort, IL, she was a member of the first graduating class of Lincolnway Community High School in 1955. Karen worked as a human resource manager at Cigna Insurance in Bloomfield, Connecticut, where she lived for over 40 years.

After retirement, Karen embraced volunteer work at the Elmwood Senior Center in West Hartford and was an active member of Asylum Hill Congregational Church. She cherished her friendships in Connecticut and her passion for animals led her to support rescue shelters and sanctuaries. Karen found joy in traveling, particularly to destinations like Greece and Israel.

Karen is survived by her sister Yvonne Piepenbrink, brother Gerald Piepenbrink, nephews Jered and Jeremy Piepenbrink, and great nephews Jack, James, and Blake. She was preceded in death by her parents Fred and Hilda Piepenbrink and her husband John.

A prayer service for Karen will be held at Kurtz Memorial Chapel in Frankfort on Saturday, August 16, with a procession to Skyline Memorial Park in Monee, IL. In lieu of flowers, donations to local animal rescue shelters are appreciated to honor Karen's memory. To order memorial trees or flowers in remembrance of Karen L. Barnaby, visit the floral store. Karen will be remembered fondly for her love of animals and her adventurous spirit.

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