Karen Lee Brandt, 80, passed away on October 23, 2023, peacefully in her sleep after a long illness. Karen grew up in Western Springs, Illinois, and attended Lyons Township High School. She later pursued her education at Culver Stockton College, earning a degree in Social Work.

Karen married Douglas Brandt on September 6, 1969, and they were happily married for 54 years. They initially resided in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, until 1983, when they moved to DeWitt, Iowa, where they lovingly watched their children grow up. Karen devoted herself to her work at the Referral Center until her retirement in 1998. Doug and Karen settled in Eastpoint, Florida, where they have called home for the past 25 years. Karen found joy in her role at Two Gulls Gift Shop, where she worked for many years.

Karen is survived by her husband, Doug Brandt, and her children, Daniel (Vicki) and Kara (James) Howard. She is also survived by her sister, Pamm Cox, as well as her nephew and niece. Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Watson and Margaret Barger.