Karen Rae Hartman

Karen Rae Hartman, 86 of Terre Haute, IN, passed away peacefully on December 19, 2024. She was born in Rockville, IN on July 27, 1938 to Kenneth Hartman and Mildred Petheram Hartman. Karen graduated from Garfield High School in 1956, then received her bachelor’s degree from St. Anthony’s School of Nursing. She started her career as a scrub nurse but then furthered her education, earning her master’s degree from Indiana University and her doctorate degree from the University of Texas. Karen found her passion in teaching and became a Professor of Nursing, sharing her knowledge at Indiana State University, University of Texas-Tyler, and finishing her career at Murray State University.

Kaen was preceded in death by her mother, Mildred Long, her “Daddy” Robert Long, a sister Donna Wernz, her longtime life partner and spouse Barbara Kearney, her daughter Kara McGuinness, and her son Kevin McGuinness. She is survived by her children, Kelli McGuinness and Kirk McGuinness (Gretchen), her grandchildren, Samantha Yates (John), Ryan McGuinness (Debbie), and Leslie McGuinness, as well as great grandchildren Michael, Ty, and MaKenzi, and several nieces and nephews.

Karen was a kind and caring woman, who loved her family immensely. She also had a tremendous love for her “fur babies”, adopting several throughout the years. When she wasn’t spending time with loved ones, she enjoyed reading and working crossword and jigsaw puzzles.

As she wished, Karen will be cremated, and a celebration of life service will be held for her family and friends at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Fitzpatrick Funeral Home.

Online condolences can be left at: www.fitzpatrick-funeralhome.com