Karlene J. Bucksteeg, 88, of Gilman passed away on Sunday, October 11, 2026 at Gilman Healthcare in Gilman. She was born on June 8, 1938 in Chicago, a daughter of Karl and Wilma (Noll) Bucksteeg. She was preceded in death by both of her parents; along with two sisters, Lois Morris and Willie Schunke; and one nephew, James Lee Schunke.
Karlene is survived by her nephews and nieces; Tom (Susan) Morris of Seneca, South Carolina, Lori (Mike) Kendall of Mattoon, Tim (Pam) Morris of Waterloo, BJ (Janet) Morris of Gilman, Dale Schunke of Gilman, Jaye Lynn (Eric) Gravitt of Normal, and Michelle (Chris) Edwards of Ellicott City, Maryland; and several great nieces and nephews.
Karlene was a devoted member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses. She enjoyed spending time with her family and visiting with people over the years. Karlene also loved days spent as a volunteer at the Gilman Nursing Home.
Visitation will be on Thursday, October 15, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. all at the Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman. Mark Hoover will officiate. Burial will follow in the Wenger Cemetery near Gilman.
Memorials may be made to the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
Please share a memory of Karlene at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.
