Karen Welfel (nee, Hjortness) was born in Oster Bronderslev, Denmark. She emigrated in 1928 at 5 years old to Racine. She was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin Welfel; parents, Einar and Otellia Hjortness; brothers, Chuck (Marcella), Larry (Effie), and Ivan (Mary); sister, Hedwig (Leonard); son, James (Linda) Welfel; and grandson, David Wyatt. Surviving are daughter, Cherie (Van) Wyatt; sons, Gary Davis, Tom (Julie) Welfel, and Jon Welfel; grandchildren, Sarah Wyatt, Scott Welfel, Kristin Spendly, Lee Welfel, Beau Welfel, Courtney Welfel-Braun, Meredith Welfel, and Erik Welfel; and sisters, Marion Hazelton (Richard) and Betty Nelson (Jack). She is further survived by many nephews, nieces, and great grand kids.Karen overwhelmingly loved her husband Marvin, family, and nature. She was a very generous and empathetic human being. She will be missed.A private family service was held for Karen. Interment will take place in West Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery.