Dorothy C. Karlen

Dorothy C. Karlen 83, was called into the Lords arms on Sunday, June 3, 2007 under the loving care of hospice at Marywood Convalescent Center, Wausau. She was born October 6, 1923 in Marathon, daughter of the late Edward and Regina (Richart) Hoffmann. On May 27, 1947 she married Joseph A. Karlen at St. Mary Catholic Church, Marathon. He survives. Dorothy was a loving wife, mother and homemaker. She was also a talented seamstress. Besides making most of her children's clothing she also worked outside the home at local bridal salons. In summer she always had a huge garden to keep her busy. Saturday mornings the house was always filled with the smells of fresh bread, donuts, cakes and cookie baking. Family camping trips were always enjoyed and after Joe's retirement they had a chance to visit all fifty states. She also enjoyed crossword puzzles and the Scrabble game was always ready for anyone who wanted to challenge her. She is dearly missed already. Besides her husband, Joe, she is survived their five daughters, Charlene (Larry) Bembenek, Green Bay, Kathryn (Fred) Wilde, Wausau, Barbara (Steven) Reichl, Weston, Jean (Robert) Klos, Rib Mountain and Donna (Jeff) Stary, Kaukauna; three sons, Charles (Debra) Karlen, Greenville, Robert (Gretchen) Karlen, Sussex and John (Jennifer) Karlen, Harbors, Minn.; 19 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren; brother, Father Emmett Hoffmann, Montana; sisters, Sister Phyllis Hoffmann, Milwaukee and Marilyn (Larry) Mondroski, Rothschild; brother-in-law, Herb Gust, Washington and many other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Besides her parents she was preceded in death by a sister, Rita Gust and an infant grandson, Andrew. The funeral mass will be celebrated 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at the Church of St. Anne, Wausau. Rev. Steven Brice will preside. Private family burial will be at St. Mary Cemetery, Marathon. Friends may call Wednesday from 4 p.m. until the time of services all at the church. The family wishes to extend their sincere appreciation to all the staff at Marywood Convalescent Center and Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services for the outstanding compassion and care shown to Dorothy. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences at www.petersonkraemer.com