Karen Jene Loy, 73, of Ottumwa, died at 8:30 p.m. April 28, 2023 at Vista Woods Care Center.
She was born July 6, 1949 in Ottumwa to Gene W. and Laura Pauline Allen Delzell. She married Gregory Phillip Loy on September 5, 1970.
A 1967 graduate of Ottumwa High School, she earned her RN degree from Iowa Methodist School of Nursing in Des Moines and a bachelor’s degree from University of St. Francis in Illinois. She had worked 38 ½ years at Ottumwa Regional Health Center. Her career included pediatrics, house supervisor, emergency room supervisor and quality administration from where she retired.
Karen was dedicated to supporting her family. Whether as a supporter of the OHS swim team, serving as a board member of the TRIPP Foundation or authoring books for different family members.
She had been a member of Willard Street United Methodist Church and enjoyed attending antique flea markets in various states. She was also a huge Disney collector.
Surviving is her husband, Greg; their two sons, Aaron (Alisha) Loy of Williamsburg and Adam (Erin) Loy of Granger; four grandchildren, Rowdy, Carson, Samantha and Makenna; a sister, Pattie Porterfield of St. Louis, MO; a brother, Bobby (Peggy) Delzell of Indianola; a step-brother, Dan Walker; and step-sister, Carol Grassman.
She was preceded in death by her mother and step-father, Laura and Donald Walker; her father, Gene Delzell; her twin sister, Sharon Joye Delzell; a brother, Kerry Dean Delzell; step-brother, J.D. Walker; and her grandson, Tripp Ernest Loy.
Visitation will be open after 1 p.m. Tuesday, May 2nd at Reece Funeral Home with her family present to greet friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday.
Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 3rd at Reece Funeral Home with Pastor Mel Kendall officiating. Burial will be in Shaul Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the TRIPP Foundation, 805 W. State St. Williamsburg, IA 52361.
