Fisk, Karen Denise

Karen Denise Fisk, 52, passed away Thursday, Nov. 21, 2013, after 24 years of fighting health complications. Memorial service will be 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 26, at Memorial Services of Iowa (4208 N. Ankeny Blvd.) in Ankeny. A visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Nov. 25, also at the funeral home.

Karen was born Feb. 23, 1961, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Eugene Fisk and D. Jean Hastings. She graduated from Ankeny High School in 1979. Karen married Steve Gross in 1982 and two wonderful children were born into this union, Nathan and Stephanie.

She spent the majority of her working career processing claims at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Iowa.

Karen had many hobbies but will be most remembered for avid crafting and creative cake designs. She was fascinated by American Indian history and art, could spend countless hours shopping, and loved listening to music. Kids were drawn to her joyful personality and playful sense of humor.

She is survived by her children, Nathan Gross (Alicia) and Stephanie Gross (Matt McCurdy); her first grandchild, Norah, expected in December; her parents, Gene Fisk and Jean Hastings; her stepmom, Kay Fisk; her sisters, Anne, Lisa, Gayle, Crystal and Cindy; and her many nieces and nephews.

Karen was preceded in death by her brother, Kevin Fisk; and stepfather, Don Hastings.

Memorial contributions may be made to Navajo Relief Fund and Make-A-Wish.

Online condolences may be made at .

Published Nov. 24, 2013 in The Gazette