Karen Marie Croyle, 44, died peacefully at her home in River Forest, surrounded by family, on Dec. 7, 2025. Born on May 9, 1981, she was a proud graduate of the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business, where she earned her MBA, and the University of Illinois. Her drive and intellect led to a successful career in investment banking at multiple firms in Chicago.
Exploring new places and cultures around the world with the people she loved most was deeply important to her. With Ryan, she traveled to Thailand, Cambodia, Italy, and Norway, immersing herself in the food, history, and beauty of each destination. Other favorite trips included visits with her sister, Ellie, in Kuala Lumpur; her brother, Tom, in New York City; and family vacations to Hawaii and Paris.
An avid reader, she ranged from Pulitzer Prize-winning novels to explorations of quantum physics and the universe, along with the occasional chick-lit guilty pleasure. Her curiosity and depth of knowledge allowed her to connect effortlessly with people from all walks of life, both personally and professionally.
Her greatest passion in life was her two children, Avery and Benjamin. Avery’s kindness and creativity always shone brightly in Karen’s eyes, and Benny’s tenacity, determination, and love of life filled her with pride and warmth. Whether going on adventures to Block Island, watching the kids’ youth soccer games, or simply spending a lazy afternoon reading together, she cherished family time with her children and her husband, Ryan.
Karen is survived by her daughter, Avery (10); her son, Benjamin (7); her husband, Ryan; her mother, Chris; her father, Terry; her sister, Ellie; her brother, Tom; and an immeasurable number of friends and extended family whose lives she touched deeply.
The family is planning a Celebration of Life to be held in the spring of 2026, with details to be shared at a later date. In lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider a donation to Wellness House in Hinsdale.
