Karen Ann Alvine, 81, of Burlington, died Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at her residence.

Karen was born on February 13, 1943 in Mt. Pleasant, IA. She was the daughter of Henry Eric and Rozella Marie (Swenson) Alvine. Karen was baptized and confirmed in the faith at Swedesburg Ev. Lutheran Church. She graduated from Olds High School in 1961 and then graduated from the former Burlington School of Business.

Karen worked at the former Montgomery Wards store in Burlington. For many years, Karen worked at the Kirlin's Hallmark store in the Westland Mall in Burlington. She completed her working career at the Dollar General store in Burlington.

Volunteerism was dear to Karen. She volunteered an untold number of hours at Hope Haven's Hopefully Yours store. She also gave of her time to other projects at Hope Haven. As someone who enjoyed reading and books, she donated many hours to the Burlington Public Library. Because of her selfless devotion, Karen was a recipient of the Iowa Governor's Volunteer Award. When time permitted, Karen enjoyed reading and latchhooking. She crafted many rugs and gave them as gifts to her family and friends. Karen's diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease and its progression eventually curtailed much of Karen's volunteer and crafting time.

Those thankful for sharing in Karen's life include 2 siblings and their spouses, Christine and Wayne Hagedorn of Fredericksburg, IA and Carl and Jan Alvine of Mt. Pleasant; 3 nieces and 2 nephews – Ann (Ryan) Zupke, Cheryl (Andy) Schmitz, Kent Alvine, Kurt Alvine and Kay (Russ) Hotchkiss, and her great nieces and nephews – Keegan Hotchkiss, Nathan, Colton and Sydney Zupke and Tyler, Spencer and Peyton Schmitz.

Her parents precede Karen in death.

A funeral service for Karen will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, August 10, 2024 at the Swedesburg Evangelical Lutheran Church. The Reverend Mark Youngquist, Pastor, will officiate. Burial will be in the Swedesburg Lutheran Cemetery.

The family will greet friends 1 hour prior to the funeral service at the church. Friends may also come from 12 Noon until 7 PM on Friday, August 9 to Kimzey Funeral Home and sign the register book. The family will not be present at that time.

Those considering an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the family for charities to be determined later.

The Kimzey Funeral Home, 213 North Main Street, Mount Pleasant, is caring for Karen and her family.

Online condolences may be directed to www.kimzeyfh.com.