Karen Frieda Kronenberger

Karen Frieda Kronenberger passed away on Monday, May 10, 2021, after a short illness. On August 24, 1945, she was born in Cleveland to Harold and Alfrieda (Heise) Kronenberger, whom she now joins in heaven.

Her lifelong profession in music began in childhood, playing the piano and the organ with much support and encouragement from her parents. She began playing music for Fairlawn Lutheran Church services when she was 13 years old. Then, Karen obtained a bachelor's degree in music at Baldwin Wallace University and a master's degree in music at the Indiana University School of Music. Karen's passion for music drove her to further her education at Rice University, where she was also the executive assistant for renowned organist, Dr. Clyde Holloway. 

Karen spent many years playing the organ for services and the choir at Fairlawn Lutheran Church and then later with Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church. These efforts resulted in lasting friendships with members of both congregations. Karen's unrivaled skill and dedication to her craft, combined with her caring, gentle nature, put her in high demand as a substitute organist at many churches.

Karen took time over decades to photographically document her family's lives and activities. She took thousands of photos that provide history and a treasured remembrance of family members, both deceased and living. Karen also researched and documented the family's ancestry and provided historical information about their lives. The family is so grateful to her that they have this to pass on to future generations.

Karen had a special, caring relationship with her pets. She had a particular love for Great Dane's and took in strays, which she cared for well during their lives. 

Karen had many diverse talents, one of which was providing video footage of sports games at Revere High School. She applied the same preparedness and dedication that she demonstrated in her music to her videography, which resulted in a high standard of video quality that was respected and appreciated by all involved over several years.

Karen made everyone she knew feel special and loved; she honestly had a caring heart. She always smiled and quietly provided support and help in times of need. Even during her illness in her last moments, we never heard her utter one word of complaint, only saying that "this was God's plan for her life."

She is survived by brothers Harold and Robert, the special joy of her life, nephew Stephen, all of Akron. Also, she is survived by her aunt, several cousins and their children, and many friends.

The family extends their special gratitude and appreciation to the Cleveland Clinic Akron General Hospital, McDowell Cancer Center, and the Justin T. Rogers Hospice Care Center for Karen's comfort.

We will hold A Celebration of Life on Saturday, June 19, 2021, at 11 AM at Fairlawn Lutheran Church, with Rev. Jim Gau and Rev. Peter Mills officiating. Burial of the urn will take place following the service at Rose Hill Burial Park. The family will receive friends one hour before the service at the church. Memorials may be made to Fairlawn Lutheran Church, 3415 W. Market St., Akron, Ohio 44333. 

Thank you, beloved Karen. We were so blessed to have you. Sleep softly, our precious one, until we see you again.

"WELL DONE, THOU FAITHFUL SERVANT...COME THEN TO THE MANSION I HAVE PREPARED 

Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes and Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N. Miller Road  Akron, OH  44333

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.