June 24, 2026 – Kewaskum, Wi – Karen Kivell, 68, of Kewaskum, Wisconsin, passed away tragically and suddenly on June 21, 2026.
Karen was a true friend in every sense of the word—steadfast, loyal, and always ready to show up for the people she loved. Family was the center of her world, and her proudest roles were being a mother, grandmother, and wife. She poured her heart into those she cared for, always willing to give the shirt off her back without a second thought and welcoming anyone to her table with one of her homemade meals. She especially enjoyed baking a variety of sweet treats and crocheting cherished gifts for her friends and family.
Karen had a gift for making people feel at home, but she was equally known for her honesty. She spoke her mind with a refreshing lack of filter, a quality that made her both unforgettable and deeply cherished. She was proud of her children and the adults they grew into, carrying that pride with her every day.
A lifelong, die hard Green Bay Packers fan, Karen cheered with unmatched passion—whether the team was on a winning streak or breaking her heart. Game days were sacred, loud, and full of her signature commentary, which everyone around her came to love.
Karen’s legacy lives on in the people she nurtured, the meals she shared, the honesty she offered, and the love she gave so freely.
Karen is survived by her husband, Duncan Kivell; son Matthew and wife Jennifer Kivell; daughter Jessica Brazzell; and grandchildren Grace Monte, Serenity Brazzell, Coralee Kivell, Kenady Kivell, Raiden Brazzell, Kyla Kivell, Xander Kivell, Croix Kivell, and Rowan Brazzell. She is also survived by her dear best friend Pat Hatke, sister in law Roxy (Tom) Gebhard, and many nieces and nephews who loved her deeply. Surviving siblings include Steve (Kathy) Kasper, Sandy Weber, Connie Larsen, Lorena (John) McCloone, Theresa (Rob) Kersten, Gerard (Kay) Kasper, and Aaron (Erin) Kasper.
She was preceded in death by her father Jesse Kasper, mother Evelyn Kasper (Anderson), sister Jean “Jeanie” Kasper, nephew Justin Kesler, mother in law Janet Kivell, and sister in law Becky Kivell.
We invite all who loved her to celebrate her life with us on June 30th. Visitation will be held from 3–5 PM, with a service at 5 PM at Schmidt Funeral Home in West Bend. A celebration of life will follow at the Newburg Community Center.
The Schmidt Funeral Home in West Bend is serving the family. If you would like to leave a message of comfort or share a memory of Karen please visit www.schmidtfuneralhome.com