Karen “Nani” Marie Kilkelly Kaune went home to the Lord on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, after a long battle with COPD. A private family celebration to be held at a later date.

Karen was born April 20, 1955, to William and Mary Pat Kilkelly in Darlington, Wisconsin. Karen graduated from NICC with a degree in nursing.

After college, Karen went on to dedicate her career as a registered nurse at ManorCare of Dubuque and then later as a corporate, travelling, compliance nurse for HCR ManorCare until her retirement in 2012.

Karen married the love of her life, Steven Joseph Kaune on October 7, 1977. Karen and Steve’s daughters, Danielle (Chris) Reicks of Goddard, KS and Tiffany (Kelvin) Kengari of Wichita, KS, meant the world to them until the grandchildren came along. There wasn’t a soul on earth that could stand in the way of Nani and her grandchildren!

Karen and Steve enjoyed extravagant vacations to their favorite island in Montego Bay, Jamaica each year until their health declined. Karen was an avid walker and enjoyed exercising and shopping with her kids and grandkids. Nani’s favorite times were spent swimming, singing Karaoke, and having sleepovers with her grandchildren.  Each grandchild had their own special bond with their Nani.

Karen is preceded in death by her “Stevie” and husband of 47 years, her father William and mother Mary Pat, her Uncle Bill and Aunt Joanne, Uncle Chuck, father and mother-in-law, and brother-in-law Mike “Buck” Powers. She is survived by daughters, Danielle (Chris) Reicks and Tiffany (Kelvin) Kengari; grandchildren, CJ and Breckin Reicks, Tallen Engels, Kiyan and Kyrie Kengari; four siblings, Koni (Bob) Arnold, Mike (Carol) Kilkelly, Steve (Jana) Kilkelly, and Karla Powers; nieces and nephews; great-nieces and nephews.

The family would like to give a special thanks to their angel Brandy. Without her help Karen’s wishes to remain at home would not have been possible.  They would also like to thank Phoenix Hospice, especially Michelle and Cindy who never stopped listening to Karen and allowing her to direct her plan of care.

May we all rejoice knowing that Karen has joined Steve for endless dinners on the beach. May Karen rest in peace and may perpetual light shine upon her.

Services in care of Downing & Lahey West Mortuary. Share tributes online at: www.dlwichita.com