Karen Elizabeth Bennett

Karen Elizabeth Bennett, 52, Rockford, passed away suddenly Thursday, December 2, 2010. She was born March 2, 1958, the daughter of Carl and Frances (Gilbert) Leach. Karen left behind a life she loved for a life that will last forever. She was married for 25 years to her loving husband, Robert. Karen's greatest joy in life was being a wife to him and raising their daughter, Alexis. Her zest for life, contagious laugh, sense of humor and her ability to light up a room with her smile made her one of the most loving and loveable people to be around. Karen served on various boards and committees throughout her life, dedicating herself to the people and causes behind them. Karen poured all of her time, energy, and love into the people around her and her pets, Sammi and Spike. She will be greatly missed and is survived by her husband Robert; daughter, Alexis; mother, Frances Leach; sister, Marsha Dahl; brother, Philip Leach; niece, Penny Maus; step-children, Bryan (Marla) Bennett and their daughter, Madelyn and Rebecca (Chris) Denzer.A memorial gathering will be held from 3:00 pm until 8:00 pm, Tuesday, December 7, 2010, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Rockford, IL 61108. A private family service and burial will be in California. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.