1945-2026
Karen Jane Robinson of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away Friday, May 8, 2026. Karen was born on July 21, 1945, to Bennie and Freda L. Sheeder. She enjoyed her time on the farm, such as playing in the timber on wooden horses. Also, she attended a one-room school, similar to the school that she enjoyed reading about in the Laura Ingalls Wilder “Little House” series. She had a passion of reading all her life.
In 1963, Karen graduated from Guthrie Center High and then moved to Des Moines to work for a time. She attended Omaha Baptist Bible College, in 1964, and spent several summers working with missionaries in Illinois. In the summer of 1965, she returned to Des Moines and began working at the “Hob Nob,” a coffee shop at the Hotel Fort Des Moines. She was able to do her dream job as an “elevator operator,” something she had wanted to do since a child. She then got a job as a telephone operator with Bell Telephone and continued working for them for 31 years in Lawrence and Topeka, Kansas, offices.
On Oct. 11, 1970, Karen married Steve Robinson. Seven years later, two special Christmas presents came to them on Dec. 24, 1977. They adopted Philip, age 4, and Nathan, age 3, from the Philippines. Her family now complete, she then devoted herself to them.
Karen spent many years as a VBS director and teacher ministering to children and adults. Another special calling was helping with church camp ministry as a cook and teacher. Also, she actively decorated the church for every season and occasion. She wanted to share the gospel whether at home, work, church or at camp. Karen also had a catering business for many years, which was a family affair. She loved traveling with her husband on cruises, which included Israel, Italy, Hawaii, Alaska and the Caribbean Islands.
After her husband, Steve, passed, Karen moved to assisted living where she could enjoy her passions of reading and crafting. She loved playing bingo two times a week. They catered to her needs, and she felt like a princess, especially at her 80th birthday party.
Karen received her glorified body on May 8, 2026. She was preceded in death by her husband, Steve; parents, Bennie and Freda Sheeder; sister, Sandra Sorensen; and brothers, Gary and Lyle Sheeder. Left to mourn Karen are her two sons, Philip and wife Krysten Robinson and Nathan Robinson; eight grandchildren, Stephen, Inez, Mia, Nathan, Simn, Pilar, Anevey and Philip Theodore, Jr.; a sister, Sherry, and her husband, Warren Gardner; as well as numerous cherished nieces, nephews and a host of friends who held a special place in her heart.
Graveside Service will be held 2 p.m., Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at Union Cemetery, 1305 North St., Guthrie Center, Iowa 50115.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made payable to Amazing Grace Baptist Camp, 4214 Eisenhower Road, Ottawa, Kansas 66067.
Full details may be found at www.dengelmortuary.com.