Karen M. Small, 73 of Gilman passed away on Friday December 27, 2024 at her home. She was born on February 11, 1951 in Chicago a daughter of Jocko and Gloria (Richter) Conlan. Karen married James “Bob” Small in Watseka on April 11, 1986 and he preceded her in death on August 7, 2017. Survivors include two sons- Joseph (Aimie) Sweeney of Gilman and Jamie (Athena) Small of Copperopolis, CA; one daughter- Shelly (Jim) Miller of Philo; 11 grandchildren- Kelsie (Brian) Pool, Brandon (Sarah) Fancher, Merrek Sweeney, Morgan Small, Skylar Small, Brock Small, Shea Small, Zach Small, Alec Small, Hayden Small, and Rowan Bork; and 10 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandmother- Minnie Atkinson, parents, one brother- Jody Price, and one son Matthew Small.
Karen loved traveling, shopping, and most of all her family. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy. Every year she looked forward to gathering the whole family together for Christmas Eve. She was a loyal Iroquois West Raiders fan, attending each and every grandkid’s sporting events. Karen was “Grammie” and “Gram Cracker” to everyone and will be missed by all.
Memorial services will be held on Saturday February 1, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Life Church in Gilman with Pastor Jim Harkins officiating. Visitation will be held two hours prior beginning at 9:00 a.m. also at the church. Burial will be at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Gilman.
Memorials may be made to Iroquois West Booster Club.
Arrangements are by Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman.
Please share a memory of Karen at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.
