Karen E. Labanow (1952-2019)

Karen E. (Lane) Labanow died peacefully in her home on November 29, 2019 in Kenosha, Wisconsin at the age of 67 surrounded by her loving family and Teaka her fur-baby. Karen is survived by her husband Dale A. Labanow, daughter Bertina (Labanow, Eckert) Standridge, son Michael (Nicole) Labanow, granddaughter Victoria Eckert, and grandson Harley Eckert, niece Carrie (Mason) Love. Karen was proceeded in death by her parents Alfred and Beverly Lane, brothers Ronald Lane, and Alan Lane.

 Karen Labanow was born July 26, 1952 in Kenosha, Wisconsin to Alfred and Beverly Lane. She graduated from Tremper High School in 1970. After graduation Karen began working at Jockey International where she met the love of her life Dale Labanow. After a love filled courtship the two were married on February 14, 1975.  

Karen was a longtime resident of Kenosha, Wisconsin and worked for multiple employers including but not limited to; Jockey International until plant closer in 1993 when she utilized Dislocated workers program achieving her degree for Supervisory Management from Gateway Technical College. Chicago Lock, where she achieved her degree as a locksmith until plant closer. Karen was an avid Union supporter, proud of her role as a Union Steward for multiple union company’s and dedicated supporter US manufacturing. Karen was a long-time bartender for Kortez Tavern (NO Name NO Parking Bar) where her empathy for others and sympathetic ear with her loyal patrons provided more than a “shot and a beer”. 

Karen was an accomplished seamstress, baker, artist, poet, Harley rider and so much more. Karen’s love of motorcycles was shared with her husband Dale as they were active members of the Kenosha Hog Chapter, Abate, and Independent Riders sharing adventurous experiences while building lifelong memories and friendships along the way. Karen’s love of adventure included poker runs, rallies, fundraisers and road tips Washington Island and Tomahawk whenever possible.

Karen’s love of life, music, art, animals, nature, laughter was a gift for all that met her, as she was blessed with unconditional Empathy for others. Karen’s love of sewing continued throughout her life, and many people were touched by her numerous talents as she sewed patches, jackets, zippers, wedding and bridesmaid dresses, to mention just a few. Her love of art and creativity was shared through crocheting, wood working, painting, and drawing leaving behind beautiful memories as her legacy. 

Karen was a dedicated mother and shared her love for children and music by being an active member of the Kenosha Band Boosters, a legacy left by Alfred and Beverly Lane, two of the original Kenosha Band Booster founders. As a chaperone Karen was known a “Mom” to all, as any child was graciously taken under her wing.

Karen was a vibrant soul, one who literally lit up the room whenever she entered, and lasting memories of her as a hard-working, passionate figure of strength who never waned in her support or love of her family, and who soldiered on, even when times were tough, she strives to put others before herself.

Visitation is scheduled for Saturday December 7, 2019 at 3:00pm at Parkway Chateau all are welcome to attend. Pastor Cindy Aasen will officiate the Celebration of Karen E. Labanow’s life at 4pm.

The family of Karen Labanow would like to thank Hospice Alliance, with special thank you for to Mary and Cathy for making sure Karen’s wish to come home was honored.