Karen Helen (Schlaefer) Mielke

Karen H. Mielke, 81, Wausau, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family and friends on Monday, June 17, 2024.

She was born February 27, 1943 in Wausau, daughter of the late John B. and Helen (Ziebell) Schlaefer.  On April 20, 1968, she married Jack J. Mielke in Wausau.  He preceded her in death on September 25, 2013.

Karen was a talented Independent Artisan, working with the local art community through Art in the Park and the Talent Shop.

In her younger years, she enjoyed spending time up North at the family cottage, camping, bowling and playing cards with family and friends.  Later in life, she enjoyed bird watching, reading and traveling with her friends.

Karen will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include three children, Corey Mielke, Neenah, Katrina (Steve) Kopp, Kronenwetter and Bradley (Jessica) Mielke, Wausau; and five grandchildren, Evelyn Mielke, Kole and Austin Kopp, and Collin and Grace Mielke.

Besides her parents and husband, Jack, she was preceded in death by two brothers, John C. “Jack” Schlaefer and Jim Schlaefer; and her in-laws, Aldon and Evelyn Mielke.

The funeral Mass will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 25, 2024 at St. Anne Catholic Church, Wausau.  Rev. Tom Lindner will preside.  Visitation will be on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until time of services at the church.

Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Wausau is in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com