Karen A. Leyrer

Karen A. Leyrer loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, and friend, 66, died Wednesday, January 3 at her home in Woodruff. She was born July 31, 1957 in Chicago, the daughter of James and Barbara (Zappen) Rodgers. She married Tony Melvin of Woodstock, Ill. and later Howie Leyrer of Belvidere, Ill.

Karen is survived by a daughter Courtney Melvin of Woodstock, Ill., a son Cole (Sasha) Melvin of Verona, and a brother Patrick Rodgers of Boise, Idaho.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents and a brother Sean Rodgers.

She grew up in Crystal Lake, Ill., and attended Crystal Lake Central High School, class of 1975. She received a masters degree from Northern Illinois University and with her love and passion for art she became an art teacher for many years in the Belvidere, Ill. school district.

Our family chain is broken

And nothing seams the same

But as God calls us one by one

The chain will link again!

Online condolences may be shared at www.nimsgernfuneral.com. Nimsgern Funeral & Cremation Services is serving the family.