Karen Ward Obituary
We bid farewell to Karen Ward of Joliet, Illinois, whose journey of life gracefully concluded on March 29, 2026. Karen touched countless lives with warmth and kindness, leaving behind cherished memories that will forever echo in hearts. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.
She was predeceased by: her parents, John Maloney and Carol Maloney; her brother Daniel; her aunts and uncles, C. J. Ericksen, Pete Vescovi, Dominic Tortorici, Robert Tierney, Judy Ericksen and Nora Tierney; and her cousin Sueann Tierney Bates.
She is survived by: her children, Chelsea Rusk (Tim) and John Ward; her siblings, Colleen Bernhard (Greg), Kathy Salela (late Michael) and Steve Maloney; her friend Sue Purkart; her niece Alyssa; her nephews, Nick, Matthew, Nathan and David; her granddaughters, Emilia and Kennedy; her aunts, Helen Vescovi and Marian Peregoy (Ray); her uncle Robert Ericksen (Lynn); her cousin Karla Button; and her friend Melissa.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Joliet Relay for Life (https://secure.acsevents.org)/ Sue Purkart, "Team Lunatoons " or to Lightways Hospice would be appreciated.
