Karen S. Kreuchauf

Karen Sue Kreuchauf, age 81 of Monroe, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026, at Addison Heights Health and Rehab Center. Born on August 17, 1944, in Monroe, she was the daughter of the late Ralph and Mildred (Parker) Hutchinson. A 1962 graduate of Dundee High School, Karen went on to earn her Registered Nurse degree from Flower Hospital School of Nursing. She worked as an RN at Mercy Memorial Hospital, where she met her husband, Kenneth C. Kreuchauf. They married on October 24, 1970, at St. John Lutheran Church in Dundee and shared more than 55 years together. After a decade at the hospital, Karen devoted herself to raising their two children as a loving homemaker.

A longtime member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Monroe, Karen served as its organist for nearly 20 years, playing for Sunday services and funerals. She also gave her time as an election worker. Above all, she cherished her role as grandmother, finding her greatest joy when the family gathered. She faithfully attended her grandchildren’s activities and offered them quiet, steadfast support and love.

Karen is survived by her husband, Ken Kreuchauf; her children, Kolette Kreuchauf and Kenny (Samantha) Kreuchauf; her grandchildren, Jared Cullen, Jordan Cullen, Gavin Kreuchauf, Lucas Kreuchauf, Ben Kreuchauf, and Will Kreuchauf; her brothers, Jerry (Gayle) Hutchinson and Randy Hutchinson; and four nephews and two nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents, her in-laws Julius and Freda Kreuchauf, and her great-niece Cathie Harrington.