Karen Josephine Priske

Karen Josephine Priske, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at the Grand JiVante in Ackley, Iowa on February 3, 2025, at the age of 84. Karen was born on January 29, 1941, in Nora Springs, Iowa, to Glen and Angeline (Paulus) Saylor. 

Karen graduated from Eldora High School in 1959 and attended Ellsworth Community College. Soon after, she embarked on a career journey that included various positions, notably in the front office of the Farm Bureau Insurance Agency. However, her greatest joy came from her role as a housewife and mother. Karen cherished the moments spent with her family, especially the Sunday gatherings at the family farm to enjoy various outdoor activities and, of course, one of Karen’s delicious home cooked meals, a tradition of togetherness that was carried out for years. 

On July 15, 1961, Karen was united in marriage to her husband, James D. Priske, with whom she shared countless memories until his passing on January 10, 2020. Together, they built a loving family that includes their children: Lori and Paul Kohart, Julie and Bryan Stickney, David and Amy Priske, Susan and Drew Brandt, and Amy and Jonathan Hoekstra. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Kate and Christopher Kohart, Brandon, Bethanie, and Rachel Mildenhall, Jack and Emma Priske, Madeline, Victoria, and Eli Brandt, Gracie, Benjamin, and Samuel Hoekstra, and her two great-grandchildren, Noa and Leo McWilliams.

Karen had an infectious smile and strong will and was described in her high school yearbook as a “big noise in a small package.” She had an impact on everyone she interacted with. She was a devout Catholic, proudly serving as a long-time member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Eldora. Her love for college sports, especially Iowa State, as well as playing cards and bingo with friends and family, brought her much joy.

She is also survived by her sister, Rita Pagel and sister-in-law, Annette Saylor. Karen is profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Glen and Angeline Saylor; brothers, Maurice, Erwin, Harold, James and Richard Saylor; and her sister, Donna Allbee.

A visitation will be held in her honor on February 7, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Abels Funeral and Cremation Service in Eldora, Iowa. A Mass celebrating her life will take place the following day, February 8, 2025, at 10:30 AM at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Eldora, with interment to follow.

Karen Josephine Priske’s legacy of love and family will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched.