Karen Kay Katz

Karen Kay Katz age 82 of New Hampton, IA died Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at MercyOne Waterloo Medical Center.

A Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 31, 2026, at New Hampton Methodist Church with Rev. Paula Hemann officiating.

Friends are invited to greet the family from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Friday, January 30, 2026, at Hugeback – Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in New Hampton. Visitation continues one hour before services at the church in New Hampton on Saturday.

Karen Kay Katz, a beacon of love and dedication, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2026, in Waterloo, IA, at the age of 82. Born on August 6, 1943, in Bristow, IA, the daughter of Gilbert and Jean (Merrill) Kuhn. Karen was a vibrant soul who brought joy and beauty to the lives of those around her.

A proud graduate of Charles City High School in 1961, Karen’s passion for aesthetics led her to pursue further education at La James School of Beauty in Mason City. There, she honed her skills and earned her Cosmetology degree, which paved the way for her remarkable 40-year career in the beauty industry. Karen’s entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as she not only worked in a salon in New Hampton but also established her own salon, Headmasters, and later expanded her business with a second salon in Waverly. Her dedication to her profession was evident in the impeccable service she provided to her clients, who came to know her not just as their stylist but as a trusted friend.

Karen’s life took a serendipitous turn when her car refused to start one fateful evening after work. It was then that Roger Katz, seeing a pretty girl in need, offered her a ride home. This chance encounter blossomed into a loving partnership, and the couple married on August 23, 1963, at Central Methodist Church in Charles City, IA. Together, they welcomed two sons, Rodney and Darin, who became the center of Karen’s world.

A devout Christian, Karen’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She invested her time and talents in the Methodist Church, where she was an active participant in the bell choir, a Sunday school teacher, and involved in numerous church events and activities. Her faith was not just a belief but a way she lived her life, spreading kindness and compassion to all.

Karen’s interests were as colorful as the flowers she adored. Her love for gardening was evident in the vibrant flower garden she tended with care. An enthusiast of science fiction movies and westerns, Karen found joy and escape in the stories that unfolded on the screen. Her affinity for animals was undeniable, always having a faithful furry companion by her side. Above all, Karen cherished her family and friends. She was a fixture at her grandsons’ baseball games, her passion for the sport as bright as her smile in the stands.

Those who knew Karen will remember her as a loving, kind, and faith-filled soul. Her legacy is one of unwavering support, boundless energy, and a heart that knew no limits when it came to caring for others.

Karen is survived by her husband, Roger Katz of New Hampton, IA; two sons, Rodney (Debra) Katz of Waterloo, IA, and Darin Katz of New Hampton, IA; two grandsons, Trevor (Melanie) Katz and Jason Katz; one great-grandson, Tucker Katz; and one sister, Shelli Farrell of New Hampton, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents.