Karen Marie Bingham

Karen Marie Bingham (née Goeres), beloved mother, sister, grandmother, and aunt, passed away on January 30, 2022 at age 78. Karen was born to Katherine (née Hess) and Frank Goeres on a farm outside of Lemmon, SD on March 18, 1943. She was the third of four children. After high school, she moved to Rapid City, SD to train in cosmetology. It was there she met her love, Richard “Corky” Bingham, whom she married on July 27, 1964. Together, they set out on a life of adventure courtesy of the United States Air Force. Her husband’s career took them to Biloxi, Mississippi; Misawa, Japan; Syracuse, New York; Chicksands, England; Heraklion, Greece; and San Angelo, Texas. She loved being part of the military community and developed friendships that spanned a lifetime, and often felt more like family. In 1965, Karen and Corky welcomed their first child, son Scott, while living in Japan. And in 1971, they added to their family with daughter Stacey while living in England. Karen enjoyed practicing sports with Scott as a young child and had much pride in watching him play throughout high school. She taught Stacey all she knew about baking, sewing, puzzles and gaming. She was a proud mom, to say the least. But it wasn’t until grandchildren were added to the mix that she felt complete. As a grandmother, Karen found her true purpose in life, doting and caring for her grandchildren with energy and unconditional love. Karen was known far and wide for her caramel nut rolls — there wasn't a person around who didn’t fall in love with them at first bite. Karen loved to have a good time and when she got together with her sisters, the laughter was loud and never-ending. With their unique family bond, she and her siblings and their partners traveled the world together late into life. Karen is survived by son Scott Bingham; daughter Stacey Bingham Doyle and husband Joe Doyle; sisters Betty (Wilmer) Hermann and Susan (Robert) Jones; and four grandchildren, Stormie Bingham (21), Ashlie Bingham (18), Katie Doyle (14), and Patrick Doyle (14). She is preceded in death by her loving husband of 55 years, Richard Bingham; parents, Frank and Katherine Goeres; and brother Donald Goeres. A celebration of Karen’s life will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, February 26 at Harper Funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a contribution to a charity that is near and dear to your heart.