Karen S. Rider, 71, of Kewanee, passed away Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at her home. She was born December 13, 1954, the daughter of Everett and June (Andrews) Schwenker in East St. Louis, IL. She graduated from Shelbyville High School in 1973 and married Stephen L. Rider, DDS on July 29, 1978, in Evanston, IL, he survives.

Karen is also survived by, sons, Justin (Crystal) Rider of Tucson, AZ, Jonathan (Channon) Rider of Peoria, IL; daughter, Alyssa (Ryan) Corell of Mason City, IA; grandchildren, Wyatt Rider, Zoey Rider, Jameson Rider, and Jackson Rider; Josephine Rider, Octavia Rider, and Wallace Rider; Olivera Corell, Lucille Corell, Callie Corell, and Grant Corell; and sister, Pauline Nolan. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Douglas Schwenker.

Karen attended Bradley University in Peoria, where she graduated in 1977 with her Bachelor of Science in Nutrition. Karen worked as an administrator for Northwestern University’s Bio-Chem department in Chicago for many years. She was a homemaker and enjoyed spending her time reading or being with her grandchildren. She also loved to walk at Baker Park. She was a member of the Kewanee Greeters Club, the Kewanee Reading Club, and St. Peter’s Woman’s Guild.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Dr. Rick Cernovich, Dr. Jujjavarapu (Dr. J.), and the care team at In Home Care Connection.

Visitation will be from 6:00 - 8:00 pm, Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Golnick Family Funeral & Cremation Services in Kewanee. A second visitation will be held from 10:00 – 10:30 am, Thursday, May 28, 2026, at St. Peter’s Evangelical Church UCC in Kewanee with the funeral following at 10:30 am. Reverend Michael Cassady will officiate. Burial will take place in Wethersfield Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Kewanee Food Pantry. Please leave a condolence online for Karen’s family at www.golnickhaskellfh.com.