Karen Ann Swader

Karen Ann Swader (nee Solchenberger), 79, of Whitewater passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Thursday, September 24, 2026.

Karen was born on April 29, 1947, to the late Lyle and Carol (nee Bennett) Solchenberger in Beloit, WI. She graduated from Lake Mills High School in 1965 and then attended Spencerian Business College. On March 23, 1968, Karen was united in marriage to her high school sweetheart, Monte Smith. They eventually settled in Fort Atkinson and raised two sons.

Karen was preceded in death by Monte in 1998; however, she was able to find love again and married Stephen Swader on September 21, 2013, with whom she shared many good years and fond memories.

Those fortunate enough to know Karen will have no shortage of memories demonstrating her unconditional kindness, love, and indomitable spirit… from Halloween parties at Sunset Lodge to quiet evenings on Little Tomahawk Lake, from decades spent biking to The Highground every summer to camping and kayaking around Lake Kegonsa, and dogs. Karen just loved dogs.

Those Karen leaves behind to cherish her memory include her husband, Stephen Swader; Sons, Timothy (Kathleen) and Andrew (Nicole); her 5 beloved grandchildren, Declan, Logan (Julie), Montana, Kathleen, and Owen; Sister, Connie Bennett-Edwards (Rob Thomas); as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and countless friends. Karen also leaves behind her extended family from the Jefferson County Courthouse, as well as the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 409.

The family would like to specifically thank the staff at Hearthstone Memory Care and Rainbow Hospice Care for the grace and kindness shown to Karen and her family these past months.

Anyone who knew Karen knew how much she loved and treasured her family, but a close second was her love of the Green Bay Packers. Stephen requests that anyone who is able wear something representing the Green Bay Packers as a way to honor and remember Karen.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, October 21, 2026 at the Nitardy Funeral Home, Whitewater, WI from 11:00 AM - 12:45 PM with a VFW Auxiliary Ceremony at 12:45 and Memorial Service at 1:00 PM. The family requests in lieu of flowers, consider making a donation to Fairhaven Senior Services (Hearthstone) or Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 409. 

Nitardy Funeral Home - Whitewater has been entrusted with Karen's care.