Karen Elaine Koppenhafer, 83, of Mexico, Missouri, passed away on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at Pin Oaks Living Center.

A visitation will be held from 5–7 p.m. on Friday, January 23, at Arnold Funeral Home, with Rev. Dr. Ayanna Shivers offering a closing prayer at 7 p.m. Private burial will take place at East Lawn Memorial Park.

Karen was born on November 18, 1942, in Salem, Ohio, the daughter of Dewey and Gloria (Pelo) McLaughlin Jr. She graduated from West Branch High School in Beloit, Ohio. On May 24, 1969, in Salem, Ohio, she married Richard C. Koppenhafer. He preceded her in death on March 2, 1987.

Karen was a devoted mother and grandmother who loved spending time with family. Following her husband's passing, she began a 20 year career at Walmart in the shoe department, retiring at the age of 65. She enjoyed crocheting, playing bingo, and fishing, and she especially loved watching sports, with a special fondness for the St. Louis Cardinals.

She is survived by one daughter, Deborah (David) O'Brien of St. Louis; one son, Richard (Crystal) Koppenhafer of Mexico; four grandchildren, Sean O'Brien, Alex O'Brien, Jace Koppenhafer, and Jax Koppenhafer; two nieces, Kristine and Julie and their families; and one honorary daughter, Kari (Matt) Clark of St. Louis.

In addition to her husband, Richard, Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Dewey McLaughlin Jr. and Gloria McLaughlin Frames, and one sister, Skip McLaughlin.

Memorial donations may be made to the Hospice Foundation of America and may be sent in care of Arnold Funeral Home, 425 S. Jefferson Street, Mexico, MO 65265.