Karen Berka Venerable, was born in Omaha, NE and passed away peacefully at home in Branson, Missouri, on May 30, 2025, at the age of 77.
Karen was a woman of deep faith and often said, “Pray about it.” This simple advice reflected her belief in the power of prayer and trusting God’s plan. Her faith was the foundation of her strength and comfort throughout her life.
The most important things in Karen’s life were her faith, her family, and her career in music.
As the daughter of a songwriter for Acuff-Rose at Opryland, Karen first got her feet wet in entertainment by performing and recording her mother’s original compositions as a child. As a teenager, she competed in the Maytag Singer/Songwriter Competition and also competed on radio for the title of Number One Teenage Recording Artist of the Year with her original song, “Chained,” marking the start of a lifelong passion for music and performance. Later in her career, she was the only contestant to compete twice on the TV show You Can Be a Star, demonstrating her exceptional talent and determination.
She earned a Master’s degree in Business, but music was her lifelong calling. A gifted singer, Karen achieved what many only dream of: a recording contract with Capitol Records. She toured with major country music artists such as Lee Greenwood, Tommy Cash, Tanya Tucker, Pam Tillis, and Sawyer Brown, performing on stages across the nation and earning the admiration of fans and fellow musicians alike.
Karen began her radio broadcasting career in Des Moines, Iowa, at KSO Radio Station, where her voice and presence quickly became known and loved. During that time, she also performed with High Gear, The Eleventh Street Band and The Street Band, and produced and performed in The Country Time Opry, building a strong foundation in music and live entertainment that would shape the rest of her career.
Her move to Branson, Missouri marked the beginning of a new and fruitful chapter. With the recognition, support, and encouragement of Bill and Janet Dailey, Karen was introduced to the Branson entertainment scene. She went on to perform with Shoji Tabuchi, Danny Davis and the Nashville Brass, and the Branson Gospel Hour. She was also a Fabulous Elvette singer and the creative force behind assembling the group for The Aaron Patrick Show at the Legends theater, a role that showcased both her talent and her leadership in entertainment.
Later she created and hosted Branson Radio Live, a beloved broadcast where she interviewed both local and visiting stars. Her warm, engaging style attracted many notable guests, including Chubby Checker, Neil McCoy, Bill Medley, Mickey Rooney, Tony Orlando, The Osmonds, and many others. She had a true knack for connecting with people on a heartfelt level, going far beyond surface-level conversations. Her interviews not only made her guests feel right at home, but also gave local residents and tourists the opportunity to get to know the artists in a more meaningful way.
Karen never met a stranger. She was known for her open heart, infectious spirit, and her unwavering desire to share the message of salvation with nearly everyone she encountered. Her love for the Branson community ran deep, and she remained an active and passionate part of it.
Karen’s closest friend, Betty Jo Snodgrass, shared a beautiful friendship with her that lasted more than 45 years and was faithful in her love and support, standing by her side holding her hand right up until the very last moments. Other cherished friends include Betty Tucker, Jay Scribner, Randy Plummer, Tracy Heaston, JC Bullock, Cindy Barr Barone, and Julie Shoemaker.
Karen is survived by her children: Kelly (Lanette) Peavey, Dan Venerable, Scott (Nicole) Venerable, and Ronda (Keith) Cardwell; nine grandchildren: T, Ashly, Trevor, Austin, Gracianna, Chancelor, Braddock, Everett, and Emma; two siblings: Frank (BJ) Berka and Donna Terrebrood. Preceding her in death were her parents Lois Bayles and Donald Berka and one sibling Keith Berka; and her closest cousins, Deanna Littles and Diana Lynn, who lovingly stood by her side and supported her right up until the very end.
Visitation will be held at Greenlawn Funeral Home in Branson on Friday, June 6, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM.
The funeral service will take place on Saturday, June 7, at 10:00 AM at God and Country Theater on West Highway 76, Branson, Missouri.