Karen D. Zikuda, 83, of Waterloo, died on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at MercyOne Waterloo Medical Center.

She was born January 28, 1942, in Waterloo, the daughter of Henry and Dorothy (Nikolas) Lange. She graduated from Waterloo West High School in 1960 and attended St. Luke’s School of Nursing from 1960-1963 where she obtained an RN degree.

Karen married Kenneth C. “Ken” Zikuda on May 30, 1970, at Kimball Ave. United Methodist Church in Waterloo; he preceded her in death on February 21, 2012.

She was an RN at Schoitz Memorial Hospital, an office nurse for Dr. Hadlund for one year, then worked for over 22 years at Parkview Gardens Care Center in Waterloo until her retirement.

Karen was a member of Kimball Ave. United Methodist Church since 1969 where she was a member of the women’s group, Priscilla Circle, and Helping Hands. She enjoyed needle work, especially counted cross stitch and crocheting, reading, sewing, and spending time with her grandchildren. She was a past member of the ABWA.

She is survived by her three sons, Andy (Crystal) Zikuda, Mike (Jean) Zikuda, and Jeff (Dawn) Zikuda, all of Waterloo; four grandchildren, Drake (Destiny) Zikuda, Hanna (Luke) Grzech, Hayleigh (Andrew Tisue) Zikuda, and Blaine (Lucy Stern) Zikuda; and a nephew, Matt (Lori) Lange.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ken; and a brother, John Lange.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at Kimball Ave. United Methodist Church with burial in Garden of Memories Cemetery, both in Waterloo. Visitation for one hour prior to services at the church. Memorials may be directed to Kimball Ave. United Methodist Church. Condolences may be left at www.LockeFuneralServices.com. Locke at Tower Park, 4140 Kimball Ave., is assisting the family. Locke at Tower Park, 319-233-3146.