Karen Janet (Nee: Schultz) Balke, 84, entered her eternal home on Wednesday, September 10, 2025. Karen was born in Racine on July 19, 1941, the daughter of Walter and Lydia (Nee: Krenske) Schultz. She was the wife of Robert A. Balke, who preceded her in death on January 11, 2011. Karen enjoyed making miniature doll houses and built one that was displayed in St. Lukes Children’s wing. She also enjoyed spending time painting, sewing and quilting. Karen was also a Badger’s fan and a Green Bay Packer’s fan. Karen will be deeply missed by her sons Christopher (Trisha) Balke and Timothy Balke along with her grandchildren Joshua, Lydia and Grayson. She will also be missed by her sisters Helen Miller and Elizabeth (Richard) Amt and brother Eric (Judy) Schultz and Sister-in-Law Kelly Schultz along with nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, son David Balke, brother and sister-in-law Richard and Marilyn Schultz, Brother John Schultz, Brother-in-law Melvin Balke, Brother-in-law Don Miller, Sister Barbara Amt, Brother-in-law Lawerence (Barbara) Balke, Brother-in-law Richard (Marilyn) Balke, and Sister-in-law Virginia and Elwood Beiley. Private services were held per Karen’s wishes.
Karen J. Balke
