Karen Kay (Hagelstein) Sysel, age 76, of rural Dorchester, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Lincoln. She was born on January 13, 1950, at Bryan Hospital in Lincoln NE. Karen was baptized March 26,1950 and confirmed May 23, 1965, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Wahoo NE. Karen married Deryl Sysel on November 16, 1974, at First Lutheran Church in Lincoln NE. To this union they had one daughter, Debra Kay.

Karen attended Wahoo elementary and high school through the first semester of her junior year when her family moved to Rock Falls, IL. She graduated from Rock Falls in 1968. Upon graduation, she worked at the Cerebral Foundation. In 1969, her family moved back to Lincoln where she worked for Central Service Company for 5 years. Growing up, Karen swore that she would never marry a farmer, but that soon changed when she met Deryl Sysel. They made their home SW of Dorchester where they farmed for nearly 50 years. Soon after moving to the farm, Karen wanted to learn how to drive the truck and tractors to help Deryl in the field. She enjoyed spending time in the field with Deryl and Deb and looked forward to their annual family vacations. Karen also enjoyed attending Young Farmers Conventions with the Lorenz and Hayek families, where many memories were made over the years.

Karen was a Gold Star member of the American Legion Auxiliary #82 Wahoo and VFW Post 4502 Wahoo, NE. She was a former member of Crete Young Farmers, Girl Scout leader and member. She also held several positions in Farmers Union, both at the county and district levels, holding many different officer positions. She was also a school board member of District #57.

Karen enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Her greatest joy was attending her grandsons' events and helping on the farm. She enjoyed hosting family and friends where she was able to cook and bake for them. She was a dedicated caregiver for Deryl.

Karen is preceded death by her husband, Deryl in February 2022, parents: Ken and Delores Hagelstein, parents-in law: George and Elsie Sysel, brother-in-law, Joe Mares and nephew, Brad Kasl.

She is survived by her daughter and son in law, Deb (Nate) Shaw, grandsons: Landon and Connor, sister-in-law, Cheryl Mares, niece, Sheri (Kevin) Schuetze and their children: Carter and Atley, aunt, Ruth Heiser, family friend, Dale Lawver and many cousins.

Services will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Dorchester United Methodist Church. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 5 - 7 PM at Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete.  Arrangements entrusted to Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete.