UPDATE COMITTAL SERVICE AND BURIAL OF CREMAINS for Karen Jeanette Ohnemus will be held 9:30 a.m., Saturday, March 16, 2013 at the Indianola I.O.O.F. Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Karen Jeanette Ohnemus (née Whitmore), of Indianola, went to eternal rest on Saturday, February 16, 2013, at the age of 74. Born November 29, 1938, Karen was the loving wife of the late Glenn Matthew Ohnemus. She was preceded in death by parents William and Jeanette Whitmore and stepbrother Mark Seiwert. Karen is survived by stepmother Alice Whitmore of Indianola, stepsisters Anna Hoffman (Brian) of Lacona, Terri Wood (Kent) of St. Louis, Karen Herkelman (Sam) of Hudson, Mary Chavez (Rocky) of Oceanside, Calif., and stepbrother Don Seiwert (Julie) of Indianola. Karen also was cherished by many nieces and nephews. Karen attended Ottumwa Heights College and Iowa State Teachers' College (now University of Northern Iowa). She began working as a science teacher. Her passion for serving others then took her to a 30-year career with the Department of Human Services in the Warren County office, where she was an advocate and guardian for and loyal friend to special needs adults. Karen was a dedicated member of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Indianola. She also enjoyed serving in several organizations, including the Warren County Board of Health,the Empowerment Board (a state-wide program that advocates for and disperses funds for programs that serve families), American Association of University Women (AAUW), Questers, Y's Men, andKiyaKoda Humane Society. For many years, Karen also facilitated Operation Santa Claus for Warren County. Karen was an avid collector and enjoyed refinishing and bringing new life to antique furnishings. She also loved to play games and to travel. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to The Helping Hand, KiyaKoda Humane Society in Indianola, or the charity of your choice.