STERLING — Karen "Karone" Lee, 59, of Sterling passed away Sunday Dec. 1, 2019, with her children at her side. 

Karen was born on May 2, 1960, the daughter of Steve F. and Marcella M (Janota) Bednar.

Karen's main passions in life were teaching, fishing, and being a grandmother. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Western Illinois University with a Bachelor's Degree in Education.  Following college, she taught for 20 years, ranging from Kindergarten through eighth grade and special education. She was currently teaching at Rock Falls Middle School.

Karen was preceded in death by her mother, father, and nephew, Joshua J. Bednar.

She is survived by her children, Brian (Lauren) Lee, of Dixon, and Celia Lee, of Amboy; her grandchildren, Colton and Amelia. Karen is also survived by her brothers, Neal Bednar, of Romeoville, Steve (Christine) Bednar, of Plainfield, James Bednar, of Sublette, and her sister, Linda Bergreen, of California.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1 p.m., on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Sublette with the Rev. Randy Fronek officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary Cemetery in Sublette. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. – noon, on Saturday at the Jones Funeral Home in Dixon.  A memorial has been established Rock Falls School District 13.

Arrangements by the Jones Funeral Home in Dixon.

Condolences may be sent online at www.thejonesfh.com.