Dr. Karen Allen Keene, a resident of Syracuse, passed away at home on the evening of Sunday, February 12, 2023. She was 68 years old.
Born in Marion, IN to Dale and Lois (Harter) Allen on January 4, 1955, Karen spent her childhood in Syracuse. In spite of living elsewhere throughout her adult years, she never stopped calling Syracuse home. Karen graduated from Wawasee High School before studying Mathematics at Butler University earning her Bachelors and Masters degrees. Later she earned her doctorate in Math Education from Purdue University.
A brilliant teacher and researcher with a servant’s heart, Karen worked for several schools and universities. Most notably, she is remembered for her time at St Mary’s College, Valparaiso University, North Carolina State University and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. She also spent time with the National Science Foundation and at several smaller institutions.
An amazing wife and mother, Karen loved her family. She adored her four grandchildren and was excited to have another on the way. She was a gifted pianist, a person of faith and was always involved in the communities where she lived. She was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church, currently a member of First United Methodist Church in Ormond Beach, Florida where she and her husband lived when they weren’t in Syracuse visiting their families.
In addition to her husband of sixteen years, Dee Keene, Karen is survived by three sons: Mitchell (Claire) Whitehead of Batavia, IL, Bruce (Brenda) Whitehead of Warsaw and Andrew (Claire) Whitehead of Chicago, IL; four grandchildren and brother, Dr. Larry (Fran) Allen of Syracuse. She was preceded in passing by her parents.
Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse is entrusted with care of Karen and the Keene family. Services will be held at the Owen Family Funeral Home, 1001 South Huntington Street, Syracuse on Saturday, February 18, 2023 beginning at 1 p.m. Friends may visit between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Family friend, Pastor Douglas Cross will officiate the service with burial at Syracuse Cemetery.
