Karen Evans

Karen A. Evans, 65 of Pekin, passed away at 9:10 am, Monday, May 14, 2018 at her home surrounded by her family. She was born in Granite City, IL on August 6, 1952 to Joseph and Betty (Prewitt) Dobrowolski. She married David P. Evans on April 6, 1985 in Pekin. He survives. She was preceded in death by her parents, and one brother, Jospeh A. Dobrowolski. Karen is survived by; her husband David; one son Zachary Evans of Pekin; six grandchildren, Robyn, Aaron, Cody, Briar, Jace and Jonah Evans; two sisters, Jean Knox of Granite City, and Janet (Doug) Rains of Lakeside, Ca.; and nieces and nephews, Godson Nathaniel Rains, Joanna (Chris) Perry, and Matthew Dobrowolski. She attended Saint Teresa Academy in East St. Louis. She received her undergraduate degree from Illinois State University where she majored in science, specializing in biology and chemistry, and was a founding Mother of Zeta Tan Alpha Sorority. She earned her Master's Degree from St. Xavier University. She taught at Pekin Community High School for 33 years, retiring in 2007. One of her greatest honors was the large number of her students who went on to be teachers, many science teachers, stating that her example inspired them to the profession. In 1995 the PCHS Board of Education named her the Outstanding Contributor, she was frequently nominated as a member of Who's Who Among American Teachers. Karen was the long time official scorer for girls' basketball volleyball games, and faculty advisor for the Pom Pom Squad. She was active in conservation organizations, and chaired the local Ducks Unlimited Ladies' Chapter of the River City Duckettes and received special recognition for her work. Karen and David were Life Sponsors, Diamond Life Sponsors, and Sponsors in Perpetuity in both the Pekin and Garrison, MN chapters of D.U. She was also an accomplished floral gardener and animal lover. As per Karen's very strong wishes, her body has been donated to science for medical advancement and training. A private Celebration of Life will be held later this month. Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting Karen's family with arrangements. Karen was cherished by her family, and friends and all who knew her as a most beautifully loving, caring, thoughtful, generous, giving lady in the finest sense of the word. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Illinois Cancer Care, 8940 N Wood Sage Rd, Peoria, IL 61615-7828.