Karen Fink (VanLone, Britton) was born on September 17, 1952 in Kenosha. She is the daughter of Ralph and Gladys Fink (Kjorstad). Karen attended Forest Park Elementary, Lance Junior High School and Tremper High School. She then attended Carthage College, graduating with business and accounting degrees. She worked at Modine Manufacturing in Racine, where she met her future husband, Richard Britton. Karen and Richard (Dick) began the new chapter of their life in California where Dick continued to work for Modine and Karen for Nippon Denso. During a trip to Australia, they married at Kyneton Uniting Church, in the presence of her family who live there. Late in Dick's career, at Modine, they followed an opportunity that presented itself back in Racine.

Karen and Dick lived in the Village of Wind Point, and both sailed in their boat from the Racine Yacht Club until a few years ago. Karen loved the challenges of theology and she and Dick were active members of their local Lutheran Church. Many cold Wisconsin winters were broken with months in the warm climate of Panama City, Florida. Karen was always interested in the US political process, and she was a village trustee for the Village of Wind Point, specializing in the financial aspects of the village. Karen and Dick were philanthropic supporters of Carthage College over many years.

Karen passed away at The Woods of Caledonia after a brief illness. She is survived by a brother Ron  (Chris), along with 3 children Courtney (Glenn) – their children Elijah and Reuben; Jeremy (Michelle) – their children Levi, Owen and Zachary;  and Naomi (James) – their son, George.  All of the family reside in Australia. Karen also leaves behind 3 wonderful stepchildren Chris (Racine), Steve (Atlanta) and Shawn (San Francisco).

Service Details

Per Karen's wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life for Karen will be held in the future.