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[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E801]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING THE LIFE OF MRS. KARLA JO KROEKER
______
HON. DOUG LAMBORN
of colorado
in the house of representatives
Friday, August 28, 2020
Mr. LAMBORN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mrs.
Karla Jo Kroeker, cherished wife, sister, mother, grandmother, patriot,
and friend.
Karla was born May 13, 1945, and adopted by her loving parents,
Kenneth and Dorothy Willich, when she was just thirteen days old. Her
father was a rancher, and mother, a school teacher. Karla and her
brother, David, enjoyed ranch life, riding horses, working cattle, and
growing various crops.
Karla graduated from Stoneham High School in 1963. She attended
Northeastern Jr. College in Sterling, Colorado, where she met and
married the love of her life, Phillip [LTC (Ret)], on June 4, 1967.
After graduating from college, Karla worked as an elementary school
teacher, and Phillip was stationed at Fort Carson Army Base in Colorado
Springs before being drafted to serve in Vietnam.
Phillip returned safely from the war, and they had two beloved
children, a son Kendell in 1972, and daughter Krystal in 1975.
After their children were born, they bought their family home in
Monument, Colorado. Karla left her career in education and began
running a health and wellness company from home, which gave her the
freedom to dedicate her time and energy to her family. She was a
``hands-on'' classroom mom to her children--going to every field trip,
band concert, and sporting event. Karla never missed an opportunity to
shower her family with grace and love.
Seventeen years ago, Karla discovered and met her biological twin
sisters, Madelyn and Marilyn, and instantly formed a sisterly bond that
grew and lasted until her passing.
Karla was a person of great Christian faith; her love for the Lord
was boundless and unmistakable. She led a local high school Bible study
group for over 28 years and was a member of Cathedral Rock Church in
Monument, Colorado.
A founding member of Sunrise Republican Women, Karla served in
various leadership roles, contributing her wit, humor, and occasional
sass to their skits and events. Karla loved to decorate floats for the
Monument 4th of July parade and was always wearing a smile on her face
and flag in her hand. She was a dedicated and faithful patriot.
Karla loved to read, work in her yard, and, most of all, spend time
with her four grandsons. She found joy in every aspect of life. Her
zeal was contagious.
Karla is survived by her husband (of 53 years) Phillip, son Kendell
(Christy), daughter Krystal (Bill), brother David, sisters Madelyn and
Marilyn, and grandsons Joshua, Daniel, Liam, and Evan. Karla will be
greatly missed.
She of all people would want everyone to know that she has met her
Savior face to face, and is in a far better place.
____________________