Karen Lynn McKinley, 67

Karen L. (Hurst) McKinley, died on April 24, 2019, at her home, surrounded by family and friends, at the age of 67. Born March 9, 1952, in Greensburg, Indiana, daughter of Don E. and Wilna K. Hurst, she graduated from Greencastle High School in 1970. She went on to graduate from Ball State University in 1974, with bachelor’s degrees in both Journalism and English.
Karen’s career began as the first female criminal police reporter for the Anderson Daily Bulletin. Soon after, she moved back home to Greensburg to own and operate Dorothy’s Colorama. Her passion for journalism lead her back to the field, as she soon became a reporter and photographer for the Greensburg Daily News, achieving the rank of Managing Editor in 1983. She left the newspaper industry for public service, working at River Valley Resources for over 30 years before retiring in June 2018 to spend more time with her family, in particular her five grandchildren.
During her career, Karen raised two fine sons, Justin and Joshua. Karen’s indefatigable work ethic throughout her life not only provided for her family, but also served as a benchmark for her sons, and will continue to build a legacy for many generations to follow.
Karen was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Greensburg. She was active in Big Brothers / Big Sisters (now Champions of Youth), where she served as Vice President.
She is survived by her mother Wilna (Konzelman) Hurst of Bloomington, Indiana; sons Justin (Rhiannon) McKinley of Camby, Indiana, and Joshua (Amber) McKinley of Greensburg, Indiana; brother Dave (Francie) Hurst of Bloomington, Indiana, and sister Luann (Chuck) Evens of Fortville, Indiana. She was preceded in death by her father, Don Hurst.
Funeral mass will be held at noon on Saturday, May 4th, 2019, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Greensburg, Indiana, with Fr. John Meyer officiating. A luncheon will follow mass for family and friends to gather and share memories.
Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Mary’s Catholic Church building fund, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Champions of Youth (formerly Big Brothers / Big Sisters) in Greensburg, Indiana, and Animal Welfare Institute (awionline.org).
Karen’s attitude and relentless drive will be missed in the town of Greensburg, in her workplace, and amongst her friends and family.  Online condolences can be made to the family at www.popfuneralhome.com