Alma Mae Karels left this life for glory at a young 85 years of age on August 19th, 2023, surrounded by her family after an intense and very quick battle with cancer. Alma was born on May 16th, 1938, to Oscar and Gertrude Johnson. She was the only daughter to the Johnson’s along with three brothers, Leland who passed away at 7 days old, Gerald and Lynnie.

She married the love of her life, Nick Karels, both age 18 at Clam Falls Lutheran Church. They started their married life by moving to California and quickly discovered that coming home to Wisconsin would be their destiny.

Alma enrolled in Polk County Normal to obtain her teaching certificate while Nick explored different business options. Alma developed her teaching career of 35 years of which 33 were primarily in Frederic, WI. Together with Nick they began their lifelong business, K-Wood Truss Rafters in 1973.

They had two daughters, Cynthia and Leah and it was their passion to include them in many of their adventures.

Alma’s life was marked by many things; most importantly her love for Jesus, family, and helping wherever and whenever she could. Her absence will be felt not just by her family and friends but by her church, New Hope Lutheran, and the numerous committees and volunteer organizations she has belonged to over the years. She was a generous woman in every way.

Alma is preceded in death by her husband, Nick; her parents, Gertrude and Oscar Johnson; her brothers, Leland, Gerald, Lynnie; and son-in-law, David Steffen.

Alma is survived by her daughters, Cynthia (Phil) Leonard of Grantsburg, WI and Leah (Ken) Sunquist of Frederic, WI. Also left here to miss her are her three grandchildren, Jacob Steffen, Frederic, WI, Lauren (Chris) Gaalswyk, Fairmont, MN, Clara (Levi) Rust, Dallas, TX; and 5 great-grandchildren, Ryland, Jaxon, Bodin, Lennon Gaalswyk and soon to arrive baby Rust; They love their "Nana" fiercely. Also survived by her sister in laws, Dorothy Mauer and Elsie Johnson; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

A visitation will be held on August 25th at 10 AM at New Hope Church in Grantsburg, WI. A celebration of life and lunch will follow the visitation at 11 AM.

She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: “Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.” Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.
Proverbs 31: 25-31.

Arrangements were entrusted to Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home.

Last Update: Aug 24, 2023 11:23 pm CDT