It is with heavy hearts we share that Karen Ann Bauknecht, age 68, lost her courageous battle with cancer. She passed away peacefully at home on September 27, 2026.

Karen was born on March 2, 1958 to James and Dorothy Kobes and grew up the third oldest of six siblings. She attended Mishicot High School and shortly after graduation she married Daniel Bauknecht on September 16, 1977. They just recently celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary. The couple settled in Two Rivers and raised three children of their own. Karen made a career working at Shoreline Credit Union as a loan officer. Karen loved going “Up North” to her family's cottage and taking many trips with her husband to Mexico. She enjoyed going shopping with her daughters and granddaughters. She could also be found in the stands cheering on her own children and later her grandchildren at all of their many sporting events. Later in retirement she found a passion for pickleball and played often at the local YMCA with her husband. Karen was a hard-working, loving mother and wife. She truly loved life and made the most of every moment. She was always on the go, finding somewhere to be, something to do, and another memory to make. Her zest for life and adventurous spirit touched everyone who knew her. While we will miss having her beside us on life’s many adventures, we will carry her love, laughter, and memories with us wherever we go.

She is survived by her loving husband, Dan Bauknecht; her children: Sarah (Troy) Kunz, Amy (Luke) Sampe, Scott Bauknecht and partner Kim Zellmer; grandchildren: Evan and Chloe Kunz; Owen, Adyson and Emma Sampe. She is also survived by her five siblings: Dalen Kobes and partner Janice Theriault, Gary (Ruth) Kobes, Larry Kobes, Gene (Lynn) Kobes and Janice (John) Leclair; her mother-in-law, Pearl Bauknecht; along with several brothers-in-law & sisters-in-law, many nieces, nephews, and friends who will deeply miss her.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, James and Dorothy Kobes; father-in-law, Richard Bauknecht and a brother-in-law, Greg Bauknecht.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am Tuesday, October 13, 2026 at St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic Church in Two Rivers. Fr. Louis Golamari will preside at the memorial mass, with burial to be held at a later date.

The family will greet relatives and friends at St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic Church prior to the mass on Tuesday, October 13th from 9:00 until 10:45 a.m.

Online condolence messages may be shared at dejamartin.com.

The family would also like to acknowledge Hospice nurses Kayla and Pam from Aurora Hospice for the exceptional care that was given to Karen in the final weeks of her life.

Deja & Martin Funeral Chapels of Two Rivers is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.