Karen A. Justeson

Karen A. Justeson, age 82, of Madison, passed away on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison surrounded by her loving family both in person and on the phone following a 30 year battle with heart disease.

She was born on August 8, 1943 in Milwaukee, WI, the daughter of Phyllis J. (Marczewski) and Gerald G. Krueger. In 1961, Karen graduated from Assumption High School in Wisconsin Rapids. She attended UW-Stevens Point and graduated in 1965 with a degree in Education. Karen A. Krueger married Gary D. Justeson on July 16, 1966. They celebrated 44 years together before he passed away on July 17, 2010.

Karen raised her family and worked as a teacher at Fox Valley Technical College in Appleton before her family relocated to Madison. Karen was a Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher in the Madison Metropolitan School District for over 20 years. She retired in 2003, yet continued to work as a substitute teacher until her best friend, Arlene Krueger retired.

Karen was a member of the “Red Shirts” who helped support legislation for AARP. She spent many days at the State Capitol championing for the rights of retired people. She was also an active volunteer for Luke House and helped serve meals up to her passing. She was passionate about helping make sure everyone was fed and did not have food insecurities. She was an active member of Lake Edge Lutheran Church in Madison and served on their committee for their Memorial Garden. Flowers made her happy. She started a flower club at the condo community with her friend, Susan Fadness. Everyone admired the work they started and how they grew the club to make sure the flowers continue to thrive this summer and in the future.

Karen’s number one priority was her family. Raising three children took lots of time and energy, and she always put their needs first. She was there to help with homework, coach their sports teams, and make sure she never missed any event. Her sewing skills made sure that they always had the best outfits and costumes. Her homemade cookies and treats were always in her cookie jar especially at Christmas time. Spending time together cooking and baking made everyone happy. Her five grandchildren will also attest to her special skills as the best grandma. Her love for them was endless.

Spending time in northern Wisconsin was a highlight of her summers. For over 50 years, the family traveled north for “Yes” week where there was time outdoors, on the lake and in the cabin. She had a knack for catching crappies which she equally enjoyed eating. Flea markets, ice cream stops, golfing, and time on the beach also filled her days with her family. She also began her hobby of puzzling which carried over to her home. There was always a puzzle to be shared with anyone who came over to her home.

Karen loved to adventure. She started out by traveling the country by taking different routes to Arizona each year and documenting in a journal all of the sights along the way. After Gary’s passing, she began traveling with her friend, Arlene. They traveled all across the country and to Norway together.

Karen will be remembered for the countless hours of love and support that she gave to those who surrounded her. She enjoyed all of her many adventures. She was an amazing mother who truly enjoyed her children, her grandchildren and all of her friends around her. She was so proud of all of their individual accomplishments. She never stopped caring and giving to all who touched her.

She is survived by her three children; Hans P. Justeson (Amy) of Belleville, Holly J. Justeson (Andre Robinson) of Chandler, AZ, and Heidi L. Hyland of Madison; five grandchildren, Emma and Sam Hyland, Jacob and Joshua Justeson and Elijah Robinson; and her brother, James E. Krueger; and her significant person, Mel Johnson. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gary D. Justeson, her parents, Phyllis J. and Gerald G. Krueger and her brother, Gerald E. Krueger and sister-in laws, Mary Ann Krueger and Linda Krueger.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at CRESS FUNERAL SERVICE, 3325 E. Washington Ave from 4-7 pm. A Celebration of her Life will be held on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at LAKE EDGE LUTHERAN CHURCH, 4230 Monona Drive at 11:00 a.m. preceded by a one hour visitation. A luncheon will be held following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to Luke House Inc of Madison https://www.lukehousemadison.org/  , The River Food Pantry https://www.riverfoodpantry.org/  and Lake Edge Lutheran Church Memorial Garden.  https://www.lelc.org/

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3325 E. Washington Ave.

Madison (608) 249-6666 Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com