Karen Louis (Rumph) McKown, age 82, of Osgood, passed away early Sunday morning, February 8, 2026, at Manderley Health Care.
She was born in Weatherford, Texas, the only child of Loren and Irene Mary (Knigga) Rumph. Karen graduated from Dillsboro High School in 1961 and continued her education at Ball State University, graduating in 1965 with a degree in Elementary Education.
The year 1965 was a significant one in Karen’s life. In addition to completing her college education, she was united in marriage to Jerry McKown on August 1, 1965, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church at Bear Branch. That same year, she began her teaching career at Greendale.
Karen’s time at Greendale was brief, as she and Jerry made their home in Osgood, where she went on to teach at Jac-Cen-Del School Corporation. She began teaching kindergarten, a role in which she truly excelled. Her calm demeanor and gentle personality allowed her to comfort new students and help them feel safe, valued, and cared for. Her career at Jac-Cen-Del spanned more than 35 years, leaving a lasting impact on countless students and families.
Karen and Jerry were blessed with three children and shared more than 60 years of marriage. She was also a co-owner of the Red Barn Restaurant, loved her family dearly, and was always proud to call Osgood her home.
She is survived by her loving husband, Jerry McKown; sons, Scott (Lisa) McKown of Indianapolis, and Pat McKown of Cincinnati; and daughter, Beth Wickstrum of Lexington, Kentucky; along with five grandchildren.
Friends and family are invited to attend visitation on Monday, February 16, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Neal’s Funeral Home in Osgood. Funeral services will be held at 5:00 p.m., also at the funeral home.
Online condolences may be placed at www.nealsfuneralhome.net.
Memorials may be given to St Peter’s Lutheran Church Bear Branch, in care of Neal’s Funeral Home.