Karen M. Schroer, 83, of Gibbon, NE passed away on May 7, 2026, in Branson, leaving behind a life filled with love for family, friends, and faith — and the love they shared with her in return.

She was born on September 26, 1942, in Kearney, to Bernard and Thelma (Wiseman) Lyons. Karen grew up in Gibbon and attended school in nearby Kearney from grade school through high school, building the foundation for a life rooted in the community she would always call home. From an early age, she carried herself with determination and a lively, adventurous spirit that remained with her throughout her life.

Karen was united in marriage to her late husband, Elmer, during a hot August summer in Kearney, Nebraska. Together they built a loving life in Gibbon, where they raised their three children — Bruce, Bryon, and Thrisha — and welcomed countless visitors for coffee and chats around the table. Family was the center of Karen’s world, and she devoted herself fully to the roles of wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She took great pride in the family she and Elmer created, and the bonds they formed remained strong through the generations.

She is survived by her sons, Bruce Schroer and his wife Eva, and Bryon Schroer; her daughter, Thrisha Webster and her husband Terry; her grandchildren, Bailey Suh, Logan Webster, Kameron Perrone, Kasa Head, and Seth Schroer; and six great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her beloved sisters, Gloria Mason and Debbie Perleberg, and her dear sister-in-law, Mary Lyons. Karen was preceded in death by her husband, Elmer; her parents; and her brother, Bernie Lyons.

Karen was a hardworking and dedicated woman who enjoyed both motherhood and her work. She worked at various grain elevators in the Gibbon area for more than 30 years and deeply valued the relationships she built with the farmers who frequented the business. Through her work, Karen formed many lasting friendships that she treasured throughout her life.

A Christian by faith, Karen held her beliefs close to her heart throughout her life. Her faith was an important part of who she was, and she found comfort and purpose in her church community. She loved attending weekly Bible study and Sunday services. Her spiritual life was a source of strength, and she shared that strength with others through her words, her example, and her steadfast presence.

Karen found great joy in sharing her love of life with family and friends. She was active in quilting and sewing clubs and enjoyed using her talents to create and connect with others. She also had a keen hobby of scrolling Facebook and exploring every conspiracy theory she could find. She loved tending her garden and canning fruits and vegetables to keep her basement rations fully stocked. Above all, Karen had an enduring passion for animals and is survived by her rescued fur babies, Kitty Babe, Marmalade, and Phoebe.

Karen’s personality was often described as spunky, and that spark shone through in the relationships she built and the memories she created.

A celebration of life will be held in the Gibbon area on a future date in remembrance of Karen.  Local arrangements are under the care of Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory.