Karen Kollasch, 74, of Colfax, Iowa, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2026. Born on December 11, 1951, in Colfax, Karen spent her entire life in the community she loved, becoming a beloved fixture to all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Karen dedicated the early years of her professional life to caring for others as a nursing assistant, a role that reflected her naturally compassionate and giving spirit. She went on to build a warm and familiar presence in the local community through her work in retail, including positions at the Colfax Butcher Shop, Younkers, Sears, and Weirick Drug Store, where she was known for her friendly smile and genuine interest in the people she served.

On February 14, 1976, Karen married the love of her life, Richard Kollasch, at Immaculate Conception Church in Colfax. Together they built a family and a life full of love. They were the proud parents of two children, Douglas Michael and Jennifer Ellen.

Karen had a deep passion and pride for the Iowa Hawkeyes. She loved attending Hawkeye games, performances of the Hawkeye Marching Band, watching Caitlin Clark, and collecting Hawkeye memorabilia. Whether cheering from home or talking about the games with friends and family, Karen's enthusiasm for the Hawkeyes was infectious.

In her personal life, Karen found joy in the simple pleasures: reading romance novels, watching television, gathering with family, and embarking on memorable trips with her cousins. These travels brought her great happiness and left a treasure trove of cherished memories for all who accompanied her.

Karen is survived by her children and their spouses, Douglas and Dr. Colleen Kollasch of Iowa City, Jennifer and Brian Aller of Colfax. She leaves four grandchildren, whom she loved dearly: Benjamin and Elena Kollasch, Lexie and Logan Aller and his longtime girlfriend Peyton Wright. Karen is also survived by two brothers, Roger "Babe" Gorman and his wife Deanna, and Todd "Sam" Gorman and his partner Wendy Hopkins. Karen also leaves Marco Antonio Rey Ariño of Getafe, Spain, an exchange student whom she embraced as her "Spanish son." Karen had 34 nieces and nephews, and many cousins, in-laws, and friends whose lives she touched throughout her 74 years.

She is preceded in death by her husband Richard, her parents, Floyd and Marjorie Gorman, and a brother, Donald Gorman.

Karen Kollasch was a woman of quiet strength, warm humor, and deep devotion to her family and hometown. She will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Karen's family will greet friends for visitation at Coburn Funeral Home in Colfax, Iowa, on Monday, June 8, 2026, from 6:00 - 8:00 PM. A memorial service will be held the following day at the funeral home, starting at 10:30 AM. Following the service, a committal will be held at Greencastle Cemetery. After the burial, a lunch will be held at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Colfax, all are welcome to attend.