Kenneth Wayne Karstens, age 62 of Auburn, IA, passed away unexpectedly, surrounded by family on Monday, May 25, 2026, at Bergan Memorial Hospital in Omaha, NE. Ken was a loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to many.
   Ken was born on June 24, 1963, in Manning, IA, to Leonard and Janice (Hammond) Karstens. He was the oldest of three children. He attended school in Wall Lake, IA. He was wed in April of 1991 to Cynthia Beckman of Carroll, IA. Through that marriage came three children, Andrew, Joseph, and Jessica. The couple later divorced and Ken made his home in Lake View, IA.
   Throughout his life he worked at several hog and turkey confinements and worked at the Feed Mill in Carroll, IA, before retiring last June. Ken enjoyed spending time with his family and friends and loved anything that had to do with being outdoors. He had a love for trapping and hunting as well as fishing and camping. He enjoyed wind therapy and riding his motorcycle when the weather got nice. He left behind a loyal dog, Patches; anywhere Ken went, Patches went too. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
   Ken is survived by his three children, Andrew Karstens of Carroll, IA, Joseph (Kelsey) Karstens of Glidden, IA, and Jessica (Omar) Zuniga of Carroll, IA; grandchildren: Logan Karstens, Josie Karstens, Joanna Karstens, Olivia Karstens, John Hodge, and newest addition, Romy Zuniga; sister Kathy Schlitz; niece Nicole Schlitz; many aunts, uncles, cousins, other extended family members and friends.
   He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Janice Karstens; grandparents Elmer and Pauline Karstens; and brother Ronnie Karstens.
   There will be a private graveside service at a later date and a Celebration of Life for the public at a later date to be determined.