Cynthia R. Karlen

Cynthia R. "Cindy" Karlen 53, W1030 Huckleberry Road, Edgar, died Monday, February 9, 2009 at her home under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services. She was born October 11, 1955 in Hammond, Indiana daughter of the late Myron and Rita (Kropidlowski) Matysik. On January 26, 1974 she married Allen Karlen at Holy Family Catholic Church, Poniatowski. He survives. For more than 20 years Cynthia worked as a claims representative for the former Wausau Insurance Co. Her true passion in life was music. She was the organist and choir director at Holy Family Catholic Church, Poniatowski for over 40 years and played keyboard and sang back up and vocals for the band Country Express. The band was recently recognized as the 2007 Wisconsin State Hodag Champions. Besides her love of music Cynthia deeply cherished the time she spent with her family especially with her grandchildren. Survivors include her husband, Allen Karlen, Edgar, two children, Cori (Kasy) Lipinski and Russell (Jessica) Karlen, both of Edgar, five grandchildren, Jakob, Kane, Karlin, Delaynie and Ava, her siblings, Laurie (Terry) Burger, Edgar, Tina (Greg) Mani, Athens, Marilee (Jim) Gajewski, Edgar, Adam (Lori) Matysik, Edgar and Matt (Julie) Matysik, Salt Lake City, Utah. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Besides her parents she was preceded in death by one grandson, Blake Karlen. The funeral mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Friday, February 13, 2009 at Holy Family Catholic Church, Poniatowski. The Rev. Charles Heibl and Deacon LeRoy Knauf will preside. Friends may call on Thursday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and again on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services all at the church. Pallbearers for the service will be Joe and Bob Gajewski, Mitchell and Mason Burger and Kali and Aaron Karlen. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Edgar is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established in Cynthia's name. Online condolences may be expressed www.petersonkraemer.com