Karen Stroman, 89, of The Villages, Florida, passed away peacefully on January 29, 2026. Born on August 3, 1936, in Kendallville, Indiana, Karen lived a full and purposeful life marked by compassion, dedication, and service to others. She graduated from Kendallville High School in 1954 and married her high school sweetheart Darol Stroman on January 26,1957. Throughout her 43-year career as a Registered Nurse, Karen touched countless lives with her skill and care. She became the first Industrial Nurse for Kraft Foods in Kendallville and went on to lead the first oncology service at McCray Hospital. Her commitment to patient advocacy and innovation in nursing left a lasting impact on the patients she served so faithfully. Even after retiring, Karen continued caring for others by serving as a Stephen Minister, offering comfort and guidance to those in need. Her deep faith was central to her life, and she was an active member of New Covenant United Methodist Church, where her compassion found new ways to flourish. Karen’s love of music was a constant source of joy—she lent her beautiful voice to several choirs including The Showtime Singers, The Gospel Notes, The Villages Voices Choir, and her church choir at New Covenant. Beyond her professional and spiritual life, she found delight in friendships and leisure, enjoying golf, pickleball, and bridge with her community. She is survived by her husband Darol, three children Scott (Sue) Stroman of London England, Steven (Patty) Stroman, of Longboat Key, Florida and Kimberly (Jim) Williams of Kendallville. Also surviving are nine grandchildren who gave her great joy as they grew up in a family of love. She was proceeded in death by her parents Jack and Susan Emerson and a granddaughter Mary. Karen will be remembered fondly for her always "DOING THE BEST WE CAN, WITH WHAT WE HAVE TO WORK WITH". A celebration of Karen’s life will be held at a later date. Her family and friends take comfort knowing that her spirit continues to live on in every life she touched. Arrangements entrusted with BALDWIN BROTHERS Funeral & Cremation Society-Spanish Springs, 352-430-1449. Sentiments are encouraged at www.baldwincremation.com.