Karen Elizabeth Bennett

Karen Elizabeth Bennett, 52, Rockford, passed away suddenly Thursday, December 2, 2010.nbsp; She was born March 2, 1958, the daughter of Carl and Frances (Gilbert) Leach.nbsp; Karen left behind a life she loved for a life that will last forever.nbsp; She was married for 25 years to her loving husband, Robert.nbsp; Karens greatest joy in life was being a wife to him and raising their daughter, Alexis.nbsp; 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.nbsp; Karen served on various boards and committees throughout her life, dedicating herself to the people and causes behind them.nbsp; Karen poured all of her time, energy, and love into the people around her and her pets, Sammi and Spike.nbsp;nbsp; 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.nbsp; Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.