Karen A. Alred, age 80, a resident of Lombard, IL, passed away on Saturday, September 17, 2022. She was born July 22, 1942 in Utica, New York to Ralph & Iona Clemens.

Karen grew up the oldest of three children. She was active in church youth group and music programs in school. After high school, Karen came to Chicago to attend Moody Bible Institute but sadly wasn't able to attend. She took a job in Chicago as a typist for Compton's Encyclopedia. The choir director at Bowmanville Baptist Church invited her to the church where she was introduced to her husband Clyde. A first date at a roller-skating party turned into a proposal while Karen worked at Highland Lake Bible Conference.

Karen loved crafting including sewing, knitting, and crochet. She was also very involved at church. She led many Christmas programs and helped with children's programs. She was also known to sing in the choir. Later in life she was part of a women's Bible study.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Clyde; her daughter Heather Alred; her sisters Emily (Paul) Francisco & Jody (Tim) Nichye. She was preceded in death by her two sons Clyde Evan Alred & Bruce Allen Alred.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, October 1, 2022, at 10:30am at Western Springs Baptist Church (4475 Wolf Rd, Western Springs, IL 60558).