Karen Hartlep Metiva Sobkowiak

Our loving wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother passed away at home surrounded by her family, on Wednesday, December 11, 2024. 

Karen was born on July 14, 1942, daughter of the late Edward and Ella (Dino) Hartlep, in Kochville. She married Alton E. Metiva on January 4, 1964. He predeceased her on August 17, 1969. On October 15, 1971, Karen married Ronald R. Sobkowiak. Together they raised six children. In 1956 Karen was confirmed into the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod. She was a graduate of Michigan Lutheran Seminary, Class of 1960 and was an active member St. John, Zilwaukee. Karen enjoyed gardening, golfing and spending time with her family. 

Surviving are her husband, Ronald Sobkowiak; six children and their families, Tamara Sobkowiak Hall, Nicholas and Adam, Michelle Metiva Rabideau, Aaron, Ben (Jenna), Ethan (Lynn), Sandy (Cliff) Metiva-deRuiter, Jordan, Austin (Chelsey) Alexa (Brady), Cindy (Dave) Sobkowiak Sommerville, Josh, Andrew, Megan, Joseph Metiva, Braeden, Blake and Mark (Nannette) Metiva, Tyler, Mason; nine great grandchildren, Addyson, Cyra, Kingston, Daxton, Marley, Layla, Chase and Daisey. Besides her parents, Karen was predeceased by her in-laws, two sons-in-law, Glenn Hall and Darrin Rabideau. 

Funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m., on Monday, December 16, 2024, at St. John Lutheran Church, 318 S. Franklin Street, Zilwaukee. Rev. Scott A. Muske will officiate. Friends may visit with the family at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Those planning and expression of sympathy may wish to consider St. John Lutheran Church, Zilwaukee.