Karen Patricia Woyome, age 69, passed away on Tuesday, September 8, 2020, at Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield, Illinois surrounded by her loving family.  Karen was born October 18, 1950 in Emporium, Pennsylvania to W. James and Marie B. Peterson.  She graduated from Wheaton Central High School. Karen worked from a young age (17 years old), and enjoyed a long career as a nurse's assistant for over three decades.  She was employed at DuPage Convalescent Center and MarianJoy Rehabilitation.  Karen met Francis Woyome as a penpal, fell in love over letters and after a long courtship, the couple were married in Ghana, West Africa on August 19, 1978. They soon settled in Wheaton, Illinois (close to family) and had two girls.  They were married for 42 years.

Karen prided herself on being a devoted wife and mother; and enjoyed spending time with friends and family.  In addition, she was a talented writer and poet, was a voracious reader and enjoyed crossword puzzles and word finds.  Karen was also an active member of First Presbyterian Church of Wheaton,   She was a fun and kind spirit who touched many with her generosity, humor and positive outlook on life.

She is survived by her husband, Francis Woyome of Wheaton, daughters Holly (fiancee Marcus Velazquez) Woyome of Chicago and Olivia Woyome of Wheaton, stepson Charlie (Francesca) of Missouri and two granddaughters, Vanessa and Amaris.  She is also survived by her siblings, Ann Giddings, Stephen Peterson and Christopher (Michelle) Peterson and  nieces and nephews.

A private memorial service will be held Saturday, September 26, 2020 at First Presbyterian Church of Wheaton. A livestream of the ceremony will also be available.  A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held afterwards at Hultgren Funeral Home located at 304 N Main St., Wheaton, IL 60187 from 1:30 pm to 5 pm.  Friends and family are invited. All current Covid 19 precautions will be upheld.

Please direct floral donations to First Presbyterian Church and memorial gifts may be directed to the First Presbyterian Church of Wheaton or the Wheaton Public Library.

Family and friends may sign a guest book at hultgrenfh.com . For more information, please call Hultgren Funeral Home at 630-668-0027.