Karen Lynn Baskins

Karen Lynn Baskins, age 80, of Elkhart, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at the Center for Hospice, Esther House. Born on December 25, 1944, in LaPaz, Indiana, she was the eldest of three daughters of the late Chester E. and Mardelle L. (Krathwohl) Proctor. Affectionately known as the “Three K’s,” Karen and her sisters shared a special bond throughout their lives.

Karen graduated from Penn High School and later earned an associate degree in music from the Sherwood School of Music in Chicago. She was an extremely talented pianist who loved playing the piano and organ at church, and giving private piano lessons. Karen later purchased the New Horizon Travel Agency, where she took great joy in helping others plan their dream vacations.

Karen grew up as a faithful member of Christ Temple Apostolic Church in South Bend and dedicated many years of service to Ironwood United Pentecostal Church, serving as a pianist and singing in the church choir. Her faith in Jesus was unwavering, and she praised the Lord until her final breath here on earth. Most of all, Karen was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who cherished her family immensely.

As a teenager, Karen met the love of her life, Henry Allen Baskins. They were married on June 1, 1963, and shortly after, relocated to Germany, where Henry was stationed in the Army. Karen always talked about the time she spent abroad while supporting her husband as he served our country.

Karen is survived by her devoted husband of 61 years, Henry Allen Baskins of Elkhart, and their three children: Henry Allen (Sherrie) Baskins Jr. of Edwardsburg, Michigan; Melinda S. (Ryan) Schafer of Bremen, Indiana; and David W. (Fonda) Baskins of Elkhart, Indiana. She was also the proud grandmother of two grandchildren, Wade and Meagan Baskins, who were the light of her life. She is also survived by her sisters, Kristie (Greg) Clanton of North Liberty, Indiana, and Kandra Semak of LaGrange, Kentucky; her step-grandchildren Jennifer Bonney, Kim New, Kyle (fiancée Marla) Schafer, and Sarah Schafer; and numerous nieces and nephews who hold her dearly in their hearts. Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Chet and Mardelle, as well as her brother-in-law, Al Semak.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 30, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Ironwood United Pentecostal Church, with funeral services immediately following at 6:00 p.m. Karen will be laid to rest on Friday, January 31, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. in Olive Cemetery West. For those unable to attend, a livestream of her service can be viewed by following this link: Ironwood UPC livestream  Cruz Family Funeral Home of Osceola, Indiana has been entrusted with her care. 

In her memory, donations may be given to the Center for Hospice, 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, Indiana. To light a virtual candle, share a story of Karen’s life, or leave a message of comfort for her family, please follow the links provided on the Guestbook tab above.