Karen Alberts

Born in Iowa City, IA
Born on Aug 4, 1943
Departed on May 14, 2023

Memorial

In Loving Memory of Karen R. (Flannery) Alberts

Karen Rita Alberts, age 79, peacefully passed away at her home surrounded by family on Sunday, May 14, 2023, after a battle with a neurological disease. Her extraordinary journey on this Earth came to a close, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, love, and cherished memories.

Karen was born on August 4, 1943, in Iowa City, Iowa, to Ray and Rita (Belger) Flannery. She grew up there and attended Regina high school, graduating in 1961.

Karen went on to work at Proctor and Gamble and then pursued an associate degree in accounting from Kirkwood College. She dedicated over 30 seasonal years to what was then McGladrey, Hansen, and Dunn (now known as RSM) during "tax busy seasons." 

On August 30, 1973, Karen exchanged vows with Richard Alberts, and together, they built a life in Cedar Rapids filled with shared adventures and cherished moments.

Karen was an active and devout member of St. Matthew Parish in Cedar Rapids, IA. Her faith played a profound role in her life, and she generously shared her time and talents with the church community. From serving as a lector to managing adoration weekly for over 15 years, Karen's dedication and spirit of service touched the lives of many. In addition, she cherished the friendships she formed in various prayer groups, finding solace and connection in these gatherings.

Above all, Karen was family focused. She embraced her roles as a wife, mother, daughter, grandmother, sister, and friend with much love. She had four children, Lisa (Larry) Anderson of Cashton, Wisconsin; Kelly (Ann) Alberts of Carlsbad, California; Corey (Tracy) Alberts of Cedar Rapids, IA; and Shawna (Kevin) Huls of Marion, IA. Karen delighted in the presence of her 17 grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren, finding immense joy in their every milestone and accomplishment.

Karen had a big heart and an even bigger sweet tooth; she loved Elvis (whom she spoke with over the phone – a fun story she loved sharing with others), spending time with her dear friends, traveling, and creating lasting memories with her children and grandchildren. She opened her heart and home to family and those without a home. Karen took a very special interest in caring for her grandson, Payton, who was diagnosed with autism at an early age. She devoted a lot of time to caring for Payton from his birth until the fall of 2021 when she was physically unable to continue.

In her final days, Karen was grateful for the unwavering support of Mercy Hospice, Bright Star Care (Paige Weber & Monesia Gilbert), and the immense love shown by friends and family during the challenging last year of her life.

As we bid farewell to Karen, we remember her strong spirit and the everlasting impact she had on our lives. Her love, compassion, and dedication legacy will forever be etched in our hearts.

Karen was preceded in death by her husband, parents, grandchild, Timothy Anderson, and her brother, Paul Flannery.

A visitation will be held at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home on Sunday, May 21, 2023, from 3 to 5 PM. A Funeral Mass will be offered at St. Matthew Catholic Church on Monday, May 22, at 10:30 AM, with the burial to follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. All are welcome to join in a light lunch following the burial in Kearn Hall at St. Matthew Catholic Church.   

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her name to a charity of one’s choice or especially close to her heart, Balance Autism.