Fayette resident, Karen Schweighauser, 77, passed away at The Lodge in Fayette on March 21, 2020.

Karen Schweighauser was born October 17, 1942 in Moberly, Mo., a daughter to the late Madison and Dorothy (Keyton) Powell. Karen graduated from Fayette High School. She continued her education, graduating from Draughons Business College in Kansas City, Mo. From there, Karen worked 10 years in Jefferson City, working for the state. She worked at the Capitol as a secretary and an accountant. It was in Jefferson City where she met the love of her life, Lee Schweighauser. On June 29, 1968, they married in Fayette, Mo. Together they enjoyed nearly 51 years of marriage until Lee’s passing on March 15, 2019. Upon completion of Lee’s Air Force tour, they made their home in Fayette, Mo. While in Fayette, Karen owned and operated Karen’s Fashions, then became a hairdresser and continued that career for over 30 years. At the age of 46, Karen started playing golf. Her competitive nature helped her excel in that sport, becoming women’s club champion for 10 years.

Survivors include her granddaughter, Jessica (Daniel) Dodson of Fayette, Mo.; grandson, Keyton (Mallory) Schweighauser of Kansas City, Mo.; three great-grandchildren, Bryleigh, Karson, and McKenna; brother, Gary (Mary) Powell of Columbia, Mo. and sister, Dana (Don) Bair of Springfield, Mo. In addition to her parents and husband, Karen was preceded in death by her son, Marlon Schweighauser.

Due to the recommended CDC guidelines, services will be held privately, for the immediate family only, on Wednesday, March 25, 2020, with Rev. Ken Stacey officiating. Burial will follow the service at Fayette City Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to P.A.W.S., in care of Friemonth-Freese Funeral Service, 174 Hwy. 5 & 240 N., Fayette, Mo. 65248.