Karen S. Baker

Karen Sue Baker, 80, of Galesburg, Illinois, died at 10:43 a.m. Monday, September 7, 2026, at her home.

Karen was born January 7, 1946, in Joliet, Illinois, the daughter of Louis Lester Friend Sr. and Irene (Krall) Friend. She graduated from Galesburg High School in 1964. She married Leslie Harold Baker on August 6, 1979, in Galesburg.

She is survived by her husband, Leslie of Galesburg; two sons, Dale R. Malcolm of La Vista, Nebraska, and Aaron L. (Brandee) Malcolm of Galesburg; one brother, Ronnie (Linda) Friend of Galesburg; three sisters, Nina (Steve) Smith and Debbie (Dave) Marty, both of Galesburg, and Monica Inness of Galesburg; four grandchildren, Seth Malcolm, Zacharey Malcolm, Abigail Malcolm, and Emmie Malcolm; and one great-grandson, who she was eagerly hoping to meet, Elias Malcolm.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Lester and Louis Jr.; a sister, J. Sandy (Ernie) Watters; and a brother-in-law, Bob Inness.

Karen was a homemaker who enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She was truly a bingo fanatic, taking trips to the riverboat casino, and cooking for family and friends. She volunteered for more than 20 years at VFW Bingo.

Graveside services will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Henderson Cemetery, with Jordan Knight officiating. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be made to VNA or Critter Cove. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.