[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 151 (Friday, August 28, 2020)]
[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.

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