Service Information
Karen Martha Trocke, age 83, cherished wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away on Sunday, February 18, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.
Intimate Gathering of Family & Friends will be held at the Johnson-McBride Funeral Chapel in Glencoe, Minnesota, with interment following in the St. Paul’s UCC Cemetery in Plato, Minnesota.
Visitation will be held Friday, February 23, 2024, from 10:00-11:30 A.M., at the Johnson-McBride Funeral Chapel in Glencoe, Minnesota.
Obituary
Karen was born on December 23, 1940, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Milton and Minnetta Kamps. She was baptized on January 12, 1941, at St John’s Lutheran Church in Chaska, Minnesota. She was confirmed in her faith on April 11, 1954. Karen attended school in Chaska, MN, transferring in her Senior year to Arlington, MN. She graduated with the Arlington High School class of 1958 with her class motto being “Friendly as the Day is Long”. Karen continued her education at The Swedish School of Nursing in Minneapolis, MN where she received her Licensed Practical Nursing Degree in 1960.
She was united in marriage to Robert Trocke Sr. on October 22, 1960. Karen was a devoted wife to her husband of 58 years, Robert Trocke Sr. Together they nurtured a strong and loving family, treasuring every moment shared. She was a caring mother to her four children, Linda Trocke, Robert Trocke Jr, Cindy Stipek, and Tim Trocke. She was a devoted grandmother to her five grandchildren, Sarah Trocke-Andrea, Jordan Stipek, Maria Stipek, Emily Trocke, and Elizabeth Trocke. Karen lived a life marked by compassion, joy, and dedication to her family and friends.
Throughout her life, Karen was renowned for her kindness, generosity, and steadfast love for her family. She had a passion for serving others and participating in many organizations. Her radiant smile and gentle demeanor touched the lives of all who crossed her path, especially those she served as a nurse for more than forty years.
Karen's unwavering dedication to her nursing career was marked by tireless efforts and a profound sense of care and devotion toward her patients. Throughout her life, she selflessly served others with compassion, ensuring that each individual received not only medical attention but also comfort and support during their times of need.
Karen embraced life with enthusiasm and found joy in outdoor activities, bird watching, gardening, playing games with friends and grandchildren, and exploring new places with her family. She possessed a deep reverence for making sure other’s needs were always met before her own.
Karen will be profoundly missed by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy of love, compassion, and kindness will endure in the hearts of those she leaves behind.
Karen is survived by her
Children, Linda Trocke of Eagan, MN,
Robert Jr. (Sandy) Trocke of Kunkletown, Pennsylvania,
Cynthia (Al) Stipek of Waconia, MN,
Timothy (Janell) Trocke of Dassel, MN;
5 Grandchildren, Sarah (Nick) Trocke-Andrea, Jordan Stipek, Maria Stipek, Emily Trocke, and Elizabeth Trocke;
Siblings, Warren (Karen) Kamps of Cambridge, MN, Don (Judy) Kamps of Mason City, IA, and Donna Kamps of Sauk Rapids, MN.
Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Milton and Minnetta Kamps; husband, Robert Trocke Sr.; and brother, Merlin Kamps.
Barbara Severson says
Karen was such a kind, caring and thoughtful individual. Her kindness continues on with her family. Thoughts and prayers to all.
Barbara Martinek says
Dear and beloved friend and neighbor whose demeanor was always accepting and caring, thoughtful. Her conversations were honest and frank…trustworthy. She is among the finest women I have ever known. She was devoted to family, to her husband, to her career and volunteer work. She is one whose goodness and memory will live on. A blessing on earth, A blessing in heave
Barbara Martinek says
Beloved friend and neighbor as you lived a full, good life here be you now a glorious life eternal
Ruth Christenson says
Sincere sympathy to Karen’s family–
She and I spent many hours visiting at Big Swan Lake, Dassel!
Truly, a wonderful neighbor and friend—–
Al & Pat says
What a lovely tribute to your Mom!
Her devotion to her family was so evident…& she loved & was so proud of all of you. In return the love & devotion you showed your mom is her legacy…
Holding you close in our hearts..
John and Ann Graupmann says
Trocke family, So sorry to hear of Karen’s passing and know you are are in our prayers. She and Bob are greatly missed in the Plato community and will not be forgotten. In Christ, this is only a temporary separation until you all are reunited in heaven some day! With deep sympathy.
Kristi Alberts says
Cindy I am sending my Sympathy to you and your family. Cherish the Memories.
Hugs Kristi