Karlene Bessler, 78, of The Villages, Florida, and formerly of St. Louis, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 27, 2026, surrounded by her four children.

Born on April 10, 1947, in St. Louis, Missouri, Karlene was the beloved daughter of Marie Theresa Korhonen, nee Decker.

Karlene dedicated her life to caring for others, both professionally and personally. As a NICU nurse at St. Louis Children’s Hospital for many years, she compassionately cared for countless infants and supported their families during some of life’s most fragile moments. Even beyond her career, she continued to give back through volunteer nursing in The Villages. Karlene had SISU early in life, and grew up fast, moving from military base to military base with her mom who was in the WAC.

She loved spending time on the golf course, participating in activities with her friends, and caring for her beloved cat, Kissa. She also had a deep love for traveling, especially the annual family vacations that brought everyone together and created lasting memories. Her warmth, kindness, and contagious smile touched everyone who knew her. Known lovingly as “Oma” to her grandchildren, Karlene found her greatest happiness in her family. She treasured every moment spent with them and took immense pride in watching them grow.

Karlene was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur C Bessler.

She is survived by her children: Andy (Gail), Matt, Kevin (Laura), and Kendra (Dave). She was a loving and proud grandmother—“Oma”—to Claire, Anna, and Emi; Jennifer and Jacob; and Ava and Mason, each of whom brought immense joy to her life.

Karlene will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family, friends, many wonderful cousins, and all whose lives she touched.

Contributions in her memory may be made to: SNUGGLE Pet Rescue P.O..  Box 466 St. Peters, MO 63376https://www.snugglepetrescue.org/ or St. Louis Children’s Hospital Foundation, P.O. Box 955423 St. Louis, MO 63195-5423 https://www.stlouischildrens.org/giving