Karen A (Kalloway) Johnson

Karen A. Johnson, 76, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on March 25, 2026.

In accordance with her wishes, there will be no public services. A celebration of Karen’s life and burial at Mount Calvary Cemetery will be held at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Karen was born on July 17, 1949, to James and Helen (Saunders) Kalloway. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1967. In 1968, she married Jim Link, and together they had two sons, Jeffrey and Neal. Although their marriage later ended, Karen and Jim remained lifelong friends until his passing. On July 19, 2001, Karen married Robert “Jay” Johnson in Galena, Illinois. They shared 14 years together before his passing in 2015. Karen held a variety of jobs throughout her life, but her favorite was at the Diamond Jo Casino, where she worked from 1995 until her retirement in 2021.

Affectionately known as the “crazy cat lady,” Karen found great comfort and companionship in her cats. They were by her side through both joyful and difficult times, offering her quiet support and plenty of laughter with their antics. She also loved tending to her flowers and spending time working in her yard. An avid reader, Karen especially enjoyed the works of Stephen King.

In later years, Karen cherished the close bond she shared with her sister, Kathy. They spoke every morning, sometimes about the simplest things. Kathy truly was her best friend forever.

Karen is survived by her son, Neal (Kim) Link; her sisters, Kalla Kalloway and Kathy Beadle; her brother, Kevin (Laura Brooks) Kalloway; and her nephews, Sam Beadle, Oliver Beadle, Joe Kalloway, and Marty Kalloway.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Helen; her husband, Robert “Jay” Johnson; her former husband and dear friend, Jim Link; her son at 21, Jeffrey; former brother-in-law, Brian Beadle; and her granddaughter at 21, Samantha “Sammie” Link. Samantha held a special place in Karen’s heart, and her loss was deeply felt.

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