Memorial

Karmen A. Shedenhelm, 79 of Cedar Rapids died Thursday March 12, 2020 at her home. Services at 11:00 AM on Tuesday at the Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories. Rev. Scott Meador will officiate. There will be a visitation on Monday at the State Room at the Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories from 4 to 7 PM. Burial at the Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery.

Survivors include two daughters, Cynthia (Tom) Haring, and Becky (Garry) Copeland all of Cedar Rapids. She is also survived by five grandchildren, Tyler, Ryley and Abby Copeland and Andrew and Christopher Haring. She was a preceded in death by her husband’s Robert and Gary, her son Michael, an infant brother Kirk and her parents.

Karmen was born on October 6, 1940 in Cedar Rapids the daughter of Edwin and Gilberta (Green) Krueger. She graduated in the first class from Jefferson High School and later attended Coe College in their music program. 

Karmen married Robert on September 25, 1961. He passed away in 1967. She later married Gary Shedenhelm on August 9, 1968 in Rock Island, Illinois. Gary passed away in 2001.

Karmen was the organist at Turner Funeral Homes as well as Cedar Memorial for more than 60 years. She also played the organ for several local churches and community events. 

Karmen was a member of Lovely Lane United Methodist Church, Quilts of Valor, United Methodist Women and CRATO. 

Karmen enjoyed music, travel, shopping, and the time spent with her beloved family and many friends. Karmen was a very talented musician as well as being blessed with an outgoing and warm personality. Through her music she touched many lives. She was truly a wonderful person and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. 

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established. 

“The family would like to thank the staff at Essence of Life for the wonderful care given to Karmen.”