Karen Klinkhammer

Karen Ann Klinkhammer, 65, of Platteville, Wisconsin, died on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at Mercy One, Dubuque, from an apparent heart attack.  Services celebrating her life will be at 6:00 PM, Monday, November 10, 2025, at the Melby Funeral Home & Crematory, Platteville.  Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until the time of the service.  Online condolences can be made at www.melbyfh.com.

Karen was born on September 20, 1960, the daughter of Leonard and Alberta (Nodolf) Kabele.  She graduated from Platteville High School, class of 78, and attended SWTC, Fennimore, where she became an administrative assistant.  Karen was united in marriage to Michael “Mike” Klinkhammer on September 27, 1980, at the Lutheran Church of Peace, Platteville.  

Karen worked at BIMBO's Bakery in Dubuque for 23 years, then she worked for 6 years at Mercy Hospital, Dubuque, until her retirement.  After retiring she would fill in at Westview School, Platteville, in the kitchen serving children lunch.  Doing that gave her some special time to see her granddaughter, Harleigh.  Karen enjoyed deer hunting, catfish fishing, especially in Nekoosa, Wisconsin, knitting, crocheting, cooking and baking.  When Karen did something, she gave it her all.  She loved spending time with her family, especially her two grandchildren.

Karen is survived by her husband, Mike; three sons, Jason Klinkhammer, Travis (Rachel) Klinkhammer and Michael Klinkhammer; son-in-law, Andrew Weigel; two granddaughters, Harleigh and Lennyn Klinkhammer; brother and sisters-in-law, Paul (Connie) Klinkhammer and Mary Kay Sawvell; special niece, Jenny and other nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her daughter, Amanda Weigel, her parents, brother, Steve Kabele and niece, Julie Konichek.

Through Karen's generosity and organ donation, she will be helping many people in the future.