Karen J. Kinney

Karen J. (Kerby) Kinney, 46, of Elmhurst, Illinois passed away at 9:35 PM Friday, April 14, 2006 at St. James Hospital, Olympia Fields, Illinois. She was born in Danville, Illinois on January 18, 1960 to Robert B. and Evelyn (Dow) Kerby. She was a graduate of both Danville High School and the University of Illinois. She is survived by her husband of 21 years, Mark D. Kinney, and their children: Spencer (18), Gillian (15), Drake (12) and Wade (10) all of Elmhurst. Other survivors include her mother, Evelyn B. Kerby, and her sister, Kathy Kerby, both of Elmhurst; her brother, Kane (Bertha) Kerby of Bryant, Alabama; her nephews, Adam and Jacob Kerby of Bridgton, Maine; her niece, Katherine Kerby, also of Elmhurst, and a great-niece and two great-nephews, as well as her aunts, uncles, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her father and a brother. She leaves behind many friends, including those who were closest to her: Julie Gleason of Aurora, Illinois; Julia Hull Hegeler of New York City - her Bosom Buddy Pal Forever (40 years), and Toni Shepherd of Fithian, Illinois. Karen had a larger-than-life personality and a heart of gold. Her laughter was infectious and she spread sunshine wherever she went. She was known for her love of adventure, her thirst for knowledge, her sense of humor, her storytelling skills, and her use of Karen time " she set her watch fifteen minutes ahead so that she would never be late, but, of course, it never worked. Most of all, she was a loving, caring, and supportive mother who would do anything for her children. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends.