Karen Lea Patch
September 01, 2022
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Service Details
Karen Lea Patch, 71, passed away September 1, 2022. Services will be held at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines, IA with visitation on Sunday, September 11 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. and the funeral service on Monday, September 12 at 10:00 a.m. Burial will be at Glendale Cemetery in Des Moines.
Karen was born July 28, 1951 in Des Moines, IA to Vivian and Ken Horn. She graduated from SE Polk High School and then from Iowa Lutheran Hospital with her nursing diploma. She worked as a nurse in ER at Iowa Lutheran and on February 14, 1976, Karen married Dale Patch, a Des Moines Police officer. Karen continued her career and was instrumental in setting up the GI Lab at Iowa Lutheran Hospital and later retired from health care information systems.
In her free time, Karen enjoyed quilting, crafting, reading, and caring for her orchids. She relished travel and delighted in spending time with her grandchildren. Karen was also a volunteer with the Police Auxiliary.
This kind-hearted woman will be greatly missed by her children, Julie (Scott Smith) Patch; Kate (Brian Hutzel) Patch and their children, Vivian, Ash, and Hale; and Ryan (Kara) Patch and their children Adele, Ken, John, and Sam; her sister, Martha Stearns; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Karen was preceded in death by her husband, Dale Patch; her parents and step-mother, Shirley Horn; and sisters, Linda Shipman, Marge Horn and Becca Whiteley.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the Central Iowa Shelter and Services or to the Food Bank of Iowa.
SHARON SCHLAHT
09/15/2022
I remember Karen from my childhood. I was close friends with her sister, Linda, as we were in Camp Fire Girls together. My mother and Vivian were close friends and we lost touch with the family after Vivian passed away. So many years have gone by but I fondly remember Karen's entire family. One fun memory is Ken flooding their backyard so we could ice skate. The ice was a little bumpy, but we sure had fun. My sincere condolenses.
Gerianne and Maureen (Reenie)
09/12/2022
Karen was a beautiful soul, so caring and fun. She would visit our mom, Betty, frequently especially during our mom's illness. They would laugh for days on end. She brought laughter, brightness and fun. They both loved drinking wine and playing the slot machines together. Karen always made us feel welcome when we visited and generously made us quilts which we both treasure. Karen adored our aunt Dorothy and often spoke of her gratefulness to be included in the Patch family. We will miss her and carry her in our hearts,
Lori Chase
09/09/2022
I only met Karen in 2019 cruising with the Crusing Gals, we had a mutual friend who invited me at the last minute. I immediately liked Karen and she me. My condolences to her family 🙏🏻
Tad Shipman
09/09/2022
I married Karen's older sister, Linda, in 1980, in Kent Washington. Linda was a wonderful wife. Unfortunately, Linda died of breast cancer in 1983. Over the years Karen faithfully kept in touch sharing family news with me. In fact, I just spoke with Karen on the telephone two weeks ago, with no idea of her medical condition. I will miss Karen.
Teresa Hutzel
09/08/2022
Karen, we miss you dearly, there's an emptiness deep inside, A special place in our hearts, where love and memories reside. God came and took you Home, He said it was your time, It doesn't make it easy for the loved ones left behind. We will love you always, You're special in every way. We will be together again when God says its our day. Going to miss you my dear friend always in my heart.
Carol Blaney
09/08/2022
I've known Karen and Martha since we were all 14 years old! Whenever I think of Karen, in my minds eye I see her dancing and going a little crazy whenever the song "Cinnamon" came on the student center juke box at SEP. So fun to watch.
My heart goes out to all her children and grandchildren but especially to Martha. Thinking of you during this very difficult time. Virtual hug to you.
Linda McCarthy
09/07/2022
Karen and Dale were good friends of mine and my husband Bill. Dale and Bill worked together at DMPD and Karen and I worked together at IFMC. Karen was a good person with a fun personality and positive outlook. She treasured her children and grandchildren. We have many great memories of Karen and will hold those dear to our heart. Our deepest sympathy to all of her family and friends.
Terry Hutchinson
09/06/2022
I am so sorry to hear of Karen's passing. I have fond memories of working with her at IFMC. My deepest sympathy to her family.
Karen Clayton
09/06/2022
Karen was in the next door in our first year of nursing school. She was spunky and full of fun. I was lucky to spend time with her last winter in Florida. A beautiful, smart friend. She will be missed.
Kathy OTool Holm
09/06/2022
I am so sorry to hear this. She was in my class in nurses training. Please except my sincere sympathy.
Kelli Manning
09/06/2022
Katie and Ryan..I am soooo sorry to stumble upon this!!! I was doing a search for her to try and reconnect!! We share grandmother..Addie Heard. My mom was Dorothy, your grandpa Kenneth little sister. I am sooo very sorry!!!
Lynn Pruitt
09/06/2022
My cousin Karen was a cute little girl who often came to visit our Missouri farm. Our grandfather Pop loved to tease her and she always responded with a smile. May God bless each of her close family and friends.
Carol Dickey
09/04/2022
Kate and Ryan:
I have known your mother since 1972. We both graduated from Lutheran, worked there and then both worked at IFMC from 1984 to 2006. She was a great nurse but most of all a great person and friend. My sincerest sympathies to both of you and your families. She was so proud of both of you and loved her grandbabies.. Remember all your great memories. I know I am. Carol Dickey