Karen Pelican

Karen Pelican, age 87, was born on October 9, 1938, in Pomeroy, Iowa, and passed away on April 23, 2026, at Bishop Drumm Care Center following a courageous battle with lung cancer.

Karen shared a full and meaningful life with her husband, Joe, as they raised their family in several cities across the country before settling in the Des Moines area in 1979. She dedicated many years of service to Prairie Meadows Casino, where she worked until her retirement in 2009.

Karen was known for her warm spirit and her passions. She was an avid Chicago Cubs fan, closely followed Iowa sports, and enjoyed spending time at the Des Moines Public Library. She found joy in simple pleasures and cherished time spent with family.

She is survived by her sons: Tim (70) of Sonora, CA; Greg (67) and his wife Gina of Livermore, CA; Tony (62) and his wife Annie of Des Moines, IA; and Jeff (60) of Tracy, CA; her brother, Jim Streit of Albuquerque, NM; eleven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Karen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joe Pelican, her parents, Bernard and Catherine Streit and two daughters-in-law, Julie and Dorise.

A celebration of Karen’s life will be held on May 9 from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Park Fleur Condominiums, 3131 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, Iowa.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the thoughts, prayers, and well wishes during this time of loss.