Obituary of Karen R McAllister

Karen R McAllister was born on July 11, 1938, in Quincy, IL. She was raised on the family farm near Meyer, IL and Lewistown, MO with her two brothers and sister. Her cousins grew up nearby where they developed a close bond that lasted a lifetime. This McAllister and Baecker crew always put family first, something they learned from their parents and passed on to the next generation.

Karen graduated from Lewistown High School. She then attended Northeast Missouri State University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in business education.  She was a proud member of Delta Zeta sorority and considered her sorority sisters among her closest friends.

Upon graduation, Karen moved to California to begin her teaching career.  She later taught in both Alaska and Hawaii. She decided to leave teaching and utilize the business side of her education.

Karen joined IBM and remained there until she retired. She loved her time at IBM and advanced in the company to levels unheard of for a female at that time.  Her role at IBM included Global travel and she took advantage of this as her chance to see the world.

Toward the end of her time at IBM, she was sent to Hong Kong for three years. Through IBM, she was provided many benefits that made her time there a pleasure. She also took every opportunity to explore Asia while she was there.

Karen shattered the glass ceiling at IBM creating a path for future female leaders to follow.

Her position at IBM led her to the city that she loved and would call home. She purchased her condo overlooking New York City and thanks to the loving support of her two aides, Judy and Janet, she was allowed to stay in her home until her passing.

Karen forged lifelong friendships with childhood friends, fellow IBMers, and her Greenhouse group. Not only was she a great daughter, sister, cousin, and friend, she was an extraordinary aunt. She was loved and admired by her eleven nieces and nephews and their children. She treasured every phone call, card, and visit from friends and family.

To honor Karen’s wishes, there will be no funeral service.