Karen Sue Rieckhoff, 74, of Oak Grove, Missouri, passed away on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Research Medical Center in Kansas City, MO, surrounded by her family. Services will be held on Tuesday, January 27th at Royer Funeral Home in Oak Grove, with visitation at 1:00 p.m. and funeral at 2:00 p.m., followed by burial in Oak Grove Cemetery.
Karen was born November 8, 1951, in Independence, Missouri, the daughter of Virgil H. and Genevieve F. (Goring) Rieckhoff. She graduated from Grain Valley High School with the Class of 1969. Karen was an assistant director for the Jackson County Courts. She was also a Girl Scout Leader, a Coach for girls’ softball, a member of the Booster Club, and a Life Member of the American Legion Auxiliary. Karen liked going to craft shows, fairs, and garage sales, and enjoyed crocheting, baking, bingo, and playing Pitch. She would outbid you on the last hand, no matter what – even if she had nothing to bid on! Most of all, Karen enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, traveling, and going to the lake. She was a loving and caring mother and grandmother, who was spunky, ornery, and always had a smile on her face. Her kindness, laughter, humor, and caring ways will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Karen was preceded in death by her parents, sister Bea Norton, and brother-in-law Ed Norton.
She lives on through her son, William Manns (Kelly); daughter, Theresa Vigliaturo (Anthony); six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a host of other family members and friends.
Arrangements by Royer Funeral Home in Oak Grove, Missouri