Lorene Karsten

LORENE KARSTEN

Marengo

Through faith in her savior, Jesus Christ, Lorene Rose Karsten, Marengo, was called from this life to be with the Lord on Thursday, July 21, 2016, at the age of 89. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, July 25, at St. John's Lutheran Church, Marengo, with the Rev. Andrew Gray and the Rev. Dr. Wilfred Karsten officiating. Burial will be in Marengo Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday, July 24, from 5 to 7 p.m. at St. John's Lutheran Church.

Memorials can be contributed to St. John's tile fund.

Kloster Funeral Home, Marengo, is in charge of arrangements.

Lorene is survived by her husband, Alfred; children, Wilfred (Lynette), Kay (Randy), Arlin (Sue), Tammy, Tim (Sandra) and Thomas (Kim); grandchildren, Anna, Rachel (Matt), Ryan, Eric (Eve), Sarah, Stephanie, John, Paul, Mattie, Ketrick and Aidan; great-grandchildren, Lillian and Emmaline; brothers, Duane (Bonnie), Wilfred (Doris) and Vernon (Tammy) Werning; brother-in-law, Don Huedepohl; sisters-in-law, Kathy, Pat and Beverly Werning; and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Delbert, Merlin, Charles and Leroy Werning; sister, Ruth Huedepohl; and sisters-in-law, Lusann and Ruth Werning.

Lorene was born Jan. 12, 1927, on the family farm near Newhall, Iowa, to Arthur and Emma (Wiese) Werning. She was reborn as a child of God in the waters of Holy Baptism on Feb. 13, 1927. She attended parochial school at St. John Lutheran Church, northwest of Newhall, and on March 17, 1940, was confirmed in the Christian faith. On Sept. 2, 1956, Lorene was united in marriage to Alfred Karsten at St. John Lutheran Church in Newhall. They were blessed with six children.

Lorene's confirmation verse, Romans 8:28, was etched into her life. She reflected the meaning of "In all things God works together for the good of those who love him" by her optimistic attitude. Lorene lovingly cared for her mother for many years, was a devoted wife and helpmate as she worked alongside her husband on their farm, faithfully taught and encouraged her children and grandchildren about the savior, and fervently prayed for all of them. Ladies Aid activities and teaching Sunday school were important to her - at St. Martin's Lutheran Church and later, at St. John's Lutheran Church. For many years she co-chaired the funeral luncheon committee.

Lorene and Alfred spent their nearly 60 years of marriage living in the same home on the family farm, which she filled with love and warmth. She enjoyed preparing the large table for special holiday events when the family gathered together. She also enjoyed trips to visit her family.

Special thanks to Pastor Gray, Dr. Miller and the staff at Rose Haven and St. Luke's Continuing Care.

Online condolences may be left at www.klosterfuneralhome.com.