Karen Michelle Gwaltney

Karen Michelle Gwaltney, originally of Peoria, Illinois passed away, on August 17, 2025 in Mesa, AZ.

Born on June 26, 1964, in Peoria, Illinois, Karen was the beloved daughter of Herbert Duane (Wally) and Margaret Mary (Maggie) Waldbeesser.  She graduated from Farmington High School and worked as a Forensic Identification Technician for the Apache Junction Police Department in  AZ.  Filled with a life long dedication to learning, she went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration from Northern Arizona University and had a Minor in Mortuary Science from Maricopa County Community College.

Karen dedicated her professional life to helping families and victims of crime.  Due to her faith,  strong sense of compassion, and justice, she worked tirelessly to assist law enforcement in solving crimes and provided support for loved ones by connecting to families on a personal level.

Karen was married to the love of her life, Ricky J. Gwaltney, for 41 wonderful years.  Together they enjoyed camping, riding motorcycles, and spending time with family.  Whether she was in line at the grocery store, Disney, or running errands to her favorite decor or crafting shops, she never met a stranger, often striking up engaging conversations.  Karen had a deep love for our country, our veterans and enjoyed gardening.  She was extremely proud of her family and enjoyed sharing photos and stories of her grandchildren and their endeavors as they are a true testament to her legacy.

She was preceded in death by her father, Wally Waldbeesser, her mother Maggie Waldbeesser, and her sister, Diane Luncsford.

Karen is survived by her husband, Rick Gwaltney; her sisters Mary March (David) and Becky Dotson (Randy) ; her bothers Mike Waldbeesser (Michelle and family) and Mark Waldbeesser (Vikki and family); her daughters JoAnn Kerwin (Peter) and Kristen Foster; her son Andrew Gwaltney (Nichole); her grandsons Jayden Mauk, Connor Kerwin, Ethan Kerwin, and Samuel Gwaltney; her nieces Briana March (and family), Tracy Miller (Eric and family); nephews Matthew Dotson (David), Joshua Dotson.

The family extends a heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, caregivers, and staff that supported her in her courageous battle with cancer.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Karen’s memory to causes close to her heart:

*  Tunnel to Towers Foundation at  Tunnel to Towers Foundation

* Wounded Warrior Project at  Wounded Warrior Project – Donate

Karen’s memory will live on through the many lives she touched, her grandchildren who she cherished, and her family who loved her dearly.

Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.