Karen Sue Fondie, age 63, was called home on Monday, April 1, 2013. This beautiful woman was born on April 27, 1949, in Antigo, Wisconsin, to Jewel and Cecil Ratliff. Karen is survived by her husband, James Fondie; daughters Pamela (Keith) Krueger and Amy (Jose) Castellanos; son Christopher (Nicole) Fondie; granddaughters Jessica, Danielle, Andilynn, Martina and Zoey; and a much anticipated grandson, Jeovoni. She is further survived by her sisters, Sherry, Tammy, Janie and Patty; brothers Larry, Jerry (Joy) and Gary; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Melissa Jean; her parents, Jewel and Cecil Ratliff; a sister, Judy; and a brother, Jim.

Karen grew up in the Eagle River area. She married James Fondie on May 4, 1967, in Rhinelander where they raised their family. In healthier years, she loved spending summers fishing with her husband and keeping a beautiful garden. She absolutely loved her grandkids. She was so proud of Jessica and Danielle’s accomplishments and that Andilynn would be graduating this year.

Karen loved all kinds of music, dancing to the oldies, laughing and joking around. She also enjoyed star gazing, taking pictures and watching scary movies. She was an amazing cook and made the best potato salad. Karen also loved having coffee and playing cards with her brothers and sisters and also enjoyed trips to the casino where she would play the slots.

“You will be missed more than words can say. But when we look up at the stars, we will know that you are with our beautiful angel, Melissa, watching over us. Until we are reunited again our beautiful one … Later.”

Per Karen’s wishes, services will be private for the family. Carlson Funeral Home (715-369-1414 / www.carlsonfh.com) is assisting with the arrangements.