KAREN KAY NICHOLS

KAREN KAY NICHOLS

She is in the sun, the wind, the rain, she is in the air you breathe with every breath you take.

She sings songs of hope and cheer, there is no more pain, no more fear.

You will see her in the clouds above, Hear her whisper words of love,

You will be together before long, Until then listen for her song.  (Author, Christy Ann Martine)

Karen Kay Nichols, 73, of Hamilton, Il, formerly of Kahoka, MO, died Friday, April 17, 2020 at Montebello Health Care Center in Hamilton.

She was born February 20, 1947 Keokuk, IA, the daughter of Henry and Jessie Schneider. She graduated from Keokuk High School with the Class of 1965. She received her AA Degree from Southeastern Community College in Keokuk.

Karen was a member of the St. Paul United Church of Christ in Keokuk and Kahoka. She had ben employed with the Department of Human Services for twenty-five years retiring in 2002.

Karen was a very caring and giving person and was always there to help and assist whenever there was a need. She served as a volunteer for the Salvation Army in Kahoka. She enjoyed playing her guitar and singing. Karen especially enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.

She is survived by three sons, Mike Boyd and wife Alice of Keokuk, Brent Boyd of Quincy, Keith Boyd and wife Jill of Denver, CO and one daughter, Krystal Boyd of Cedar Rapids, eight grandchildren, Zachary Garcia & Steven Boyd, Kasondra & Hannah Boyd, Madison & Kellen Boyd, Elena Raldiris & Isaac Boyd, four great grandchildren Selena, Sophia, & Romero Garcia and Finley Bryson. She is also survived by three brothers John “Jack” Schneider and wife Diane of Springfield, MO, George “Red” Schneider and wife Charlotte of Argyle, IA, Steve Schneider and wife Cindy of Argyle, two sisters, Janet Hoppe and husband Larry of Hamilton, and Dixie VanZile and husband Richard of Hamilton.

She was preceded in death by her parents, three sisters, Alice Miller, Gloria Ruffcorn, and Lana Lee and one brother Arthur “AJ” Schneider.

Due to the current COVID-19 situation and the restriction for public gatherings, a Celebration of Karen’s life will be held at a later date.

The Vigen Memorial Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

On-line condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com