Karen Hull

STERLING – Karen M. Hull passed away Friday, July 10, 2009, at CGH Medical Center, after an extended illness, that she faced with courage and dignity.

Karen was born Jan. 4, 1946, in Hannibal, Mo., to L.J. and Kathryn (Kelley) Hull. Paternal grandparents were Everett and Mae Hull, and maternal grandparents were Charles and Lillian Kelley. Karen was raised on a farm near Hull, Ill. She attended Payson Seymour schools and graduated valedictorian of her class. She also attended Western Illinois University, graduating with honors.

Karen taught in the Sterling schools for more than 34 years at Central and Jefferson schools. While teaching special needs students, Karen initiated a camping program for her students. She provided them with many special memories, including participation in the Special Olympics. While teaching second grade, Karen instilled in her students a love for books and learning. She developed a neighborhood mobile book project that allowed students access to reading materials throughout the summer.

Karen had a strong faith and was an active member of First Baptist Church, Sterling. She volunteered for various activities and supported many church projects. She developed very strong ties with her church family.

Karen’s interests included love of nature and animals. Her pets have been special friends and brought her great joy. Her countless hours of gardening are evident in the beautiful flowers surrounding her home.

She was preceded in death by her parents; grandparents; one sister and brother-in-law, Donna and Sam Goings; and a nephew, John Goings.

She is survived by her brother, Sunny (Linda) Hull; sisters, Mary (Chuck) Loos and Cynda (Russ) Schuette; her cherished nieces and nephews, Jody and Kelley Loos, Heaven Schuette, Faith Schuette, David and Bill Goings, Heather Hull, Melissa (Gregg) Madison, Andrea (Chris) Slattery, and Kim (Teague) Bodley. Also surviving is her best friend of more than 40 years, Judy McKinnis; and numerous cousins. Karen had a special bond with her great-nieces and great- nephews, Ryan Schuette, Seth, Cole, and Will Goings, Sydnee Goings, and Daniel and Grace Madison.

She was a positive influence in the lives of many and will be missed.

Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday at First Baptist Church, Sterling, with the Rev. John Kermott, pastor, officiating. Cremation rites will follow the services. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at the church. Arrangements were entrusted to McDonald Funeral Home & Crematory, Rock Falls.