Karen Ann Silver, 81, of Neenah, Wisconsin, passed away on Monday, January 19, 2026.

Karen was born on April 9, 1944, in Aruba, to Clara Adele Stone and Joseph John Stone Jr. She found herself home in many places throughout her life, including Australia, New Jersey, California, Minnesota, and Idaho, where she met and married her beloved husband Gary on June 18, 1971. The couple eventually moved to Wisconsin in the late 1990s.

Karen earned a master's degree in Biology, writing her thesis on Eastern fox squirrels at Idaho State University in Pocatello. She began her career as a high school science teacher and later worked as a quality assurance specialist for several companies before retiring in 2010 from Perfecseal (Bemis/Amcor) in the Oshkosh area.

Karen took great care of her many happy houseplants and found joy in watching birds, knitting, and working on puzzles. A woman of faith, she loved her family dearly. Those who knew Karen will remember her warm, bright smile.

Karen is survived by her loving husband, Gary Silver; daughter, Amy; sister, Muriel; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins including Janine, Linda, Sue, and Ken.

She was preceded in death by several dear relatives, including her parents, Clara and Joseph Stone; her sisters, Andra and Denise; her uncle, Peter; and her aunt Virginia.

A rosary and mass will be held in Karen's memory and a graveside service in the Spring. Details for both will be announced at a later date. For additional information or to reach out to the family, please contact Wichmann-Laemmrich Funeral Home.

In Karen’s memory, please take a moment to appreciate the small wonders of nature or work on a puzzle with someone you love.