Karen Kay Parker, 66, of Ottumwa, died at 9:23 p.m. March 24, 2024 at Glen Oaks Memory Care in Urbandale.

She was born April 12, 1957 in Ottumwa to Arthur “Jack” and Rosetta Wheaton Parker. She married Daniel Paul Lewis, having 2 children together, and later divorced.

A 1975 graduate of Ottumwa High School, Karen attended Iowa State University and Ottumwa Heights College. She worked for the University of Iowa in Iowa City for a year before returning to Ottumwa. She then worked 43 years for Ottumwa Regional Health Center in the medical records department, retiring in 2021.

Karen attended Ottumwa Community Church and the Ottumwa Regional Health Center Retiree’s get-togethers. Karen was a giving person and was a proud blood donor, donating over 12 gallons in her lifetime. She enjoyed attending activities at the KC Hall and the Eagles Lodge. She loved live music and attending concerts. As a people person, she was always on the go and enjoyed road trips. She loved to bring light to other’s birthdays.

Surviving is a daughter, Jackie Lewis (fiancé, Jesup Fritsch) of Cadiz, KY; a son, David Lewis of Johnston; her 4-legged furry granddog, Bella; and grandcat, Morty; 2 brothers, Joe (Marsha) Parker and John (Carol) Parker; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Visitation will be open after 11 a.m. Thursday, March 28th at Reece Funeral Home with the family present to greet friends from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday.

Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Friday, March 29th at Reece Funeral Home with Pastor Bryan Wyldes officiating. Burial will be in Shaul Cemetery.

As giving back to Ottumwa was such a joy for Karen, her family asks that in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to Whatsoever You Do Women’s Shelter.