07/11/2026
Karen A. Parks
A loving wife, mother, grandmother and sister, passed away at Lightways Hospice with her family by her side, Sunday, July 5, 2026 at the age of 81 years.
Karen is survived by her devoted husband of 55 years Donald V. Parks. Their three children Donald (Gina) Parks, Brad (Jamie) Parks and Kristie (Ken) Malette. Her seven cherished grandchildren Kylie, Ellie, Keean, Gia, Ben, Lyla and Emily. She is also survived by her brothers Ken DiDomenic and Jerry (Bonnie) DiDomenic, her sister Kathy (the late Clyde) Collins, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by her parents Angelo and Minnie (nee Dapriele) DiDomenic and her brother and sister-in-law Donald and Peggy DiDomenic.
Karen was born and raised in Joliet. She was a hair stylist and business owner for over 40 years. Alongside her husband Don, they renovated houses and rented them out. She was a true entrepreneur. She loved traveling which started at 18 with a trip to Europe with her best friend Mary. She would go on to travel the world with her family and friends. She also enjoyed sewing, crafting, shopping and sharing her creativity with those around her. During her life she learned cake decorating, made ceramics and quilts. Above all else, Karen’s greatest joy was her family. She treasured time spent with her children and grandchildren, being involved in their lives. Karen was a lifelong member of the Church of St. Anthony until the merger with Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, where she still attended.
Funeral services will be held from the Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home & Crematory, 2320 Black Rd., Tuesday, July 14th at 9:30 A.M. to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 201 S. Briggs Street, at 10:00 A.M. for a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery. Memorials to Lightways Hospice will be appreciated. Visitation will be held Monday, July 13th from 3:00 – 7:00 P.M.
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Make a donation to Lightways Hospice & Serious Illness Care in memory of Karen A. Parks
