Memorial
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Karen Phyllis Alt, who left us on November 26, 2025, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Born on June 12, 1948, in Cedar Rapids, Karen was kind, loving and supportive of her family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing her. She was the daughter of Gerald Wilbur Reed and Mildred (McArthur) Reed.
Karen's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, family, and dedication. On June 3, 1967, she married the love of her life, Alexander "Sandy" A Alt, in Marion, Iowa. Karen was a proud and dedicated military wife during Sandy’s service, and together, they built a warm and nurturing home for their three children: Robb Alexander (Audrey) Alt, Nicole A (Chris Thompson) Alt, and Jason Alan (Tracy) Alt.
A lifelong learner, Karen began her education in a one-room schoolhouse in Robins, IA, and graduated high school in 1966 from Cedar Rapids Washington. After her children were all attending school, she pursued her higher education by earning an associate’s degree from Kirkwood College, beginning her journey in health care. Her career began with humble roots as a lab technician and blossomed into an impressive tenure in the healthcare industry. With her remarkable work ethic and willingness to embrace new challenges, she rose to the position of Database Manager at Iowa Health System, now known as Unity Point Health, from which she retired.
Beyond her professional achievements, Karen was a woman of many interests. Her rural upbringing fostered her love of animals, which she expressed through barrel racing and 4H. She was also instilled with a love of the land and showcased it with her passion for gardening later in life. Her beautifully tended gardens flourished with vibrance and stunning daylilies – her favorite flower of all. Karen’s flair for decorating brought warmth and joy inside her home as well, as she lovingly arranged her flowers and wreaths to reflect the seasons and holidays.
If asked, Karen would say the best thing she ever grew was not a plant at all – it would be her family. Her home echoed with love and laughter at every gathering, from holidays to summer cookouts to Sunday night movie nights. She nurtured this love outside the home as well, as she was actively involved in her children and grandchildren’s activities and served as PTA President at Nixon Elementary School. After her children grew older, she spent each weekend with her precious grandchildren, where she continued to nurture a warm home filled with joy and laughter. These moments warmed Karen's heart, creating cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of her family.
Karen is survived by her beloved husband Sandy, children Robb, Nicole, and Jason, and her five cherished grandchildren: Ali Alt, Dr. Krista (Chris) Miller, Brandon Alt, Jill Alt, Connor Alt, cousins, nieces, and nephews. Her legacy of love, kindness, and dedication will live on in each of them, as they carry forward the values she instilled in them.
Karen was preceded by her parents, Gerald Wilbur Reed and Mildred (McArthur) Reed, brother Donald and sister Joyce.
A celebration of Karen's life and legacy will be held at a later date, with details to be announced. We invite all those whose lives were touched by Karen to join us in honoring her memory. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local food bank this holiday season. Karen will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for her love, strength, and the profound impact she made on all who had the honor of knowing her. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love she shared so generously in her beautiful life.