Mitzie Bruce Karraker

Mitzie Bruce Karraker, 79, formerly of Fairview Heights, Illinois, passed away on January 16, 2026, at his home in Tunnel Hill, Illinois. He was born on November 20, 1946, in Cairo, Illinois.

He was united in marriage to Sharon Ketcham Karraker on July 30, 1979, in Vandalia, Illinois, and together they shared many years of love, family, and partnership.

Mitzie was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Sharon Ketcham Karraker; his children, Kirt (Terri) MacManus of St. Peters, Missouri, Randy (Julie) Karraker of Belleville, Illinois, Stephanie (Joe) Schwappach of Highland, Illinois, Melissa Yuengel (fiancé Ryan Lippert) of Marissa, Illinois, and Brett MacManus (fiancé Kim Solop) of Spring Hill, Florida; and his grandchildren, Evan (Nancy) MacManus, Austin MacManus (fiancé Cameron Brotherton), Sheri (Tim) Herman, Andrew (Makayla) Karraker, Maggie Karraker, Seth Schwappach, Kaleb Schwappach, Blake (Jocelyn) Yuengel, Alexis Yuengel, Allison (Erin) MacManus, and Abigail (Zachary) Hasenbusch. He was also blessed with nine great-grandchildren.

Mitzie was preceded in death by his father, Richard Karraker; his mother, Margaret Miller Karraker; and his sister, Linda Karraker Keckley. He is also survived by his brothers, Rick (Diane) Karraker and Alan Karraker, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Mitzie dedicated 40 years of his career to Terminal Railroad, where he began as a clerk and advanced into management, serving in leadership roles during the final 15 years of his tenure. During that time, he also worked as a railroad consultant for CONSAD in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, sharing his extensive knowledge of the industry. In addition, Mitzie was an entrepreneur who founded Karraker Homes, which he operated for approximately 10 years.

Outside of work, Mitzie found great joy in auctions and antiquing, especially the time spent with his father-in-law, Ted. Together, they attended weekly auctions and made twice-yearly trips to Shipshewana, Indiana, to sell their wares, as well as attending auctions in Dinkey, Indiana, and Farmington, Missouri. Much of their time was spent in the shop building, rebuilding, and restoring antiques—work Mitzie truly loved. He also enjoyed time in his shop tinkering on projects and proudly restoring his 1952 Willys CJ3A Jeep and its 1966 Army trailer.

In retirement, Mitzie helped lay out and create his oasis in Tunnel Hill, Illinois, where he enjoyed the peaceful life he built there. He especially cherished the companionship of his beloved cats—Charlie, Lizzie, Orphie, Hobie, and Yeller—who brought him daily comfort and joy. He was also an active member of the Fairview Heights Optimist Club for 20 years, serving as treasurer for 15 years and as president for one year. His dedication to service reflected his generous spirit and commitment to his community.

Mitzie will be remembered for his strong work ethic, love of family, craftsmanship, and the many friendships he formed throughout his life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois.

Visitation: Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 11:00 am to 1:00 PM, at Meridith Funeral Home, Highland, Illinois

Funeral Service: Thursday, January 22, 2026, 1:00 pm, at Meridith Funeral Home, Highland, Illinois

Clergy: Pastor Joe Taylor, Fairview Heights Church of Christ

Interment: Zion Lutheran Cemetery, Carpenter, Illinois

Meridith Funeral Home, Highland, Illinois