Karen J. Bigler

CARBONDALE - Karen J. (Dietz) Bigler, 75, of Carbondale, died peacefully at home, surrounded by a loving family on Sunday, October 29, 2017.



Karen had a passion for writing, animals and the great outdoors. She and her husband, John, who proceeded her in death, enjoyed raising animal and throughout the years had reared horses, cows, pigs, goats, raccoons and even a skunk. As Karen’s health began to falter, inhibiting her mobility, she took pleasure in just watching the wildlife from her kitchen window.



Karen was born in1942 to the late L. Delbert Dietz and Hazel (Dixon) Dietz, and was raised on the family dairy farm in Desoto, IL where Karen learned her love for animals.



Karen married John F. Bigler in 1957, and together they raised three children, Randy (Katrina), Tony (Sandy); and Deborah (Ernie) Gibson. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren.



Karen is survived by her sons, Randy and Tony Bigler, daughter Deborah Gibson; brother, Dick (Diane) Dietz, sister, Janet Fassel, sisters-in-law Betty Bigler, Ruth (Floyd) Gooden, Bobby Gooden and Regina Gerstenberger; seven grandchildren, Amy, Sarah, Chassidy and John Thomas Bigler, Luke and Lance Chapman, and Miranda Kimball.



Karen and her family would like to express gratitude to all friends and family who have offered their support and love throughout the years. Per Karen’s wishes, family and friends will celebrate a life well-lived with a graveside service on November 12, 1:00 p.m. at Indian Hill Cemetery in Desoto, IL.



In lieu of flowers and to honor Karen’s wishes, please make donations to the St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, Indian Hill Cemetery Fund, Hospice of Southern Illinois or Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, Desoto, IL.



Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale assisted the family with arrangements.