Patton, Karen Lee (nee Vahey), passed away, Sunday, July 12, 2026, in the comfort of her home and surrounded by her family, at the age of 71. She was born in St. Louis, the daughter of John and Louise (nee Mosley) Vahey, stepdaughter of Frank Albers. Prior to enjoying retirement for the last six years, Karen worked for Waterway Carwash for 47 years ending her career as the Human Resources Director.

Karen lived a life defined by love, laughter, loyalty, and the simple joys that make life beautiful.

Karen was the devoted wife of her beloved husband, Steven Lee, with whom she shared more than 50 wonderful years of marriage. Their love story began in high school and was one built on partnership, friendship, and unwavering devotion. Karen and Steve built a family that was the center of Karen's world. Justin and Jenny were the pride and joy of her life. She considered being their mom one of her greatest blessings, and she devoted herself to raising them with unconditional love, unwavering support and always encouraged them to become the very best versions of themselves.

While Karen's career and accomplishments were remarkable, nothing brought her greater pride than being a wife, mother and, most importantly, "Oma". She poured her heart into her family, showing up for every milestone, cheering from the sidelines, celebrating every achievement, and creating memories that will be cherished for generations; Karen continued this support even up until her last week of life. Karen's grandchildren always knew they were deeply loved, fiercely supported and celebrated for exactly who they were.

Family meant everything to Karen. She is survived by her loving husband, Steven Lee; her children Justin and Jennifer (Ryan Hawthorne); her four cherished grandchildren Taylor, Keegan, Landon, and Gavin Hawthorne; her mother, Louise Albers; her brother Jack Vahey, her sister Sharon (Mike) Coates, her sister Donna (Rick) Hinrichs, and her brother John (Theresa) Albers; her nephew Jason (Tonia) Coates, her niece Katie (Chris) Camis, her nephew Matt Coates, her niece Ava Hinrichs, her niece Audrey Hinrichs, her niece Brittany (Jon) McDaniel, her nephew Taylor Patton, her nephew Cody (Sophia Muller) Patton; along with many extended family members and dear friends whose lives she touched and will forever change. She adored each of her family members and treasured every moment spent watching them at the lake, sporting events or teaching them cards.

Karen was preceded in death by her father, John Vahey; her stepfather, Frank Albers, her father-in-law, Donald Patton; her mother-in-law, Joyce Patton; and her brother-in-law, Michael Patton.

Karen had a remarkable gift for friendship. Over the years, she built lasting relationships with friends, many of which have spanned decades.  Wherever she went, she met new friends and made each person feel special.

She found happiness in life's colorful moments. Karen was an avid gardener who loved tending to flowers and creating spaces where butterflies would gather. Her garden reflected her spirit-bright, lively, and welcoming. She loved traveling, boating at Table Rock Lake, relaxing at the beach, and trips to Las Vegas.  She loved the casino and called it her "me time." She was always ready for a little fun and an ice-cold Bud Light.

Karen believed life should be celebrated in splendid color. In that spirit, her family asks that those attending her service not wear somber colors . Instead, honor Karen by wearing something bright and cheerful. If you wish to send flowers, please choose arrangements that are vibrant, colorful, and full of life , just as she was.

Those who wish to remember Karen in a lasting way are encouraged to plant a butterfly garden in her honor-a place where beauty grows, butterflies gather, and memories of her can gently live on.

Karen's kindness, joyful spirit, and deep love for her family will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.


Services: A Celebration of Karen's Life will be held at the FAMILY CENTER at SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway, Ballwin, Friday, July 17. 2026, from 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. If desired, contributions may be made to Gateway Hemophilia Association , St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the American Lung Association . Friends may sign the Family's on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.

Butterfly Remembrance

Think of me when you see a butterfly
Drifting softly through the sky,
Among the flowers bright and fair,
A gentle sign that I am there.
When colors dance on summer air
And wings glide lightly everywhere,
Remember love does not say goodbye-
It simply learns to fly.
So when a butterfly catches your eye,
Pause for a moment as it passes by,
And think of me in the flowers and sky.