Karalyn A. Garber

Karalyn Ann Garber, 89, of Pekin, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 6:30 AM on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at Pekin Manor, with her daughter Kara by her side. Karalyn lived a vibrant and fulfilling life, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, creativity, and devotion to her family, faith, and community.

Born on July 11, 1936, in Eagle Grove, Iowa, to Edward M. and Marabel A. (Brinzanik) Wildeber, Karalyn grew up with a strong sense of family and community. On November 14, 1954, she married the love of her life, Kenneth Garber, in Pekin, Illinois. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared memories. Kenneth preceded her in death on July 14, 2023, after nearly 69 years of marriage.

Karalyn was a dedicated member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Pekin, where she served as secretary for 28 years, retiring in 1998. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she was an active member of the Concordia Society, contributing her time and talents to the church community. Known for her nurturing spirit, Karalyn touched the lives of many through her kindness and generosity.

A woman of many talents, Karalyn was an accomplished quilter, creating beautiful hand-sewn quilts that warmed the hearts and homes of her loved ones. Her baking, especially her delectable cakes, was a source of joy at family gatherings and celebrations. Karalyn also enjoyed participating in a local bowling league, where her competitive spirit and camaraderie shone brightly. Anybody who visited her home could see that she was also an avid gardener, with some joking that her yard rivaled the Garden of Eden.

Karalyn was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Marabel Wildeber; her beloved son, Kent Garber; three cherished grandchildren, Kody, Kari, and Lora Garber; one great-grandchild, Tera Garber; and her sisters, Gini Day and Cathie Bell.

She is survived by four children: Dana (Rose) Garber of Pekin, Kraig (Shawna) Garber of Pekin, Kurt (Myong) Garber of Inman, South Carolina, and Kara (Mario) Palmieri of Pekin. Karalyn’s legacy continues through her nine grandchildren—Jesse, Kacey, Loren, Kendra, Kasondra, Kegan, Hannah, Stephan, and Jenna—and ten great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law, Jennifer Garber of Marquette Heights, Illinois.

Funeral services to celebrate Karalyn’s life will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 700 S. Fourth St., Pekin, Illinois, with Rev. Mark Drews officiating. A visitation will be held one hour prior, from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM, at the church, offering an opportunity for family and friends to share memories and honor her life. Burial will follow at Glendale Memorial Gardens. Arrangements have been entrusted to Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory.

Memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, reflecting Karalyn’s deep commitment to her faith community.

Karalyn Ann Garber’s life was a testament to love, faith, and creativity. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and her legacy will continue to inspire those she touched.