Karen Sue Elder (Crosby)

Karen Elder, age 72, died on April 25, 2021 in her Independence, MO home after a battle against pancreatic cancer. She was born to Henry and Evelyn Crosby on April 25, 1949 in Olney, IL and was the oldest of 6 children.
At a very young age Karen started visiting her grandparents Otis and Ethel Crosby’s farm, where she learned the joy of gardening, baking canning, sewing and tending to animals. She was a wonderful cook and made the most delicious pumpkin pie that her family always looked forward to at every Thanksgiving.
Karen attended Lovington IL schools and moved to Arthur after the marriage to Charles Franklin. Where they raised 2 children Lori (Franklin) Craig of Kansas City, MO and Jason Franklin of Warsaw, MO. Karen worked for many years in the propane industry at Progress & Tri-State Tank.
Karen moved to Independence, MO after the marriage to Kevin Elder. She welcomed to loving step-daughters Candy & Kimberly Elder.
She is survived by her children and step-daughters, grandchildren Ilissa, Nick, Julie, Ryan, Carter and one great grandson Rhett. Siblings – Daryl Crosby, Sharon (Crosby) Jackson, Melody (Crosby) Vandenbrink all of IL and Dennis Crosby of Georgia.
In addition to her husband Kevin, she was predeceased by her best friend Charles Franklin, parents and sister Pam.
We would like to thank the many caretakers from MO Hospice Care and Contrive Home Care that spent many hours creating a loving caring environment for her.
A private memorial service is planned for the summer.