Karen M. Gilbert, 61, of Rochelle, passed away on Wed., Feb. 15, 2012 at Serenity Hospice Home in Oregon, IL with her family at her side. She was born on June 25, 1950 in DeKalb, IL to Ullman "Butch" and Martha Burright. In 1968, she graduated from DeKalb High School. She also received an Associates Degree from Kishwaukee College. Karen married Paul A. Gilbert on February 28, 1970 in DeKalb at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church. She was employed for many years at the Tilton School Cafeteria. She was preceded in death by her mother, Martha. The love of her life were her grandchildren and she loved going to their lake home in Delavan, WI
and spending time with her class of 1968 friends.

Survivors include her husband: Paul of Rochelle; sons: Erik (Wendy) Gilbert of Rochelle and
Aaron (Julie) Gilbert of Cary, IL; Grandchildren: Alex Gilbert of Rochelle, Molly and Ellie Gilbert of Cary; her father: Butch Burright of DeKalb; mother-in-law: Donna Olson of Rochelle; brother: Ronald (Kathy) Burright of DeKalb and several nieces and nephews including special niece: Debbie Kohler of Sycamore.

Memorial services will be at Unger-Horner Funeral Home at 7:30 PM Monday, Feb. 20, 2012
with Rev. Gary Erickson officiating. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 PM Monday prior to the service. In lieu of flowers: Memorials can be made to Serenity Hospice Home.