Kari Joanne Killian-Lustenberger

Kari Joanne Killian-Lustenberger
October 14, 1974 - October 9, 2025
With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for her life, we share the passing of Kari Joanne Killian-Lustenberger, who departed this world peacefully on October 9, 2025, just days shy of her 51st birthday. She was surrounded by family and had valiantly battled cancer for many years.
Born on October 14, 1974, in Caldwell, Idaho, Kari arrived just three minutes after her twin sister, Dawn. Together, they were the youngest of the six children born to James and Berniece (Bernie) Killian, joining sisters Lorrie, Linda, Shari, and brother Gene. After her parents divorced, Jim later married Maxine King, and Kari's family grew with the addition of three siblings: brothers Kevin and Kerry, and sister KaLyn, and many holidays, family reunions, card and game nights, camping trips, and picnics in the park were enjoyed.
Kari followed in her sisters' footsteps with her first job at Chow Now Drive-In during high school. She graduated in 1993 and began a long and dedicated 25-year career at US Bank as an Operations Specialist.
That same year, Kari met Paul Lustenberger, who would become the love of her life. The two were married in 2004. They welcomed their son, David James, in 2003, and daughter, Samantha Jo, in 2012, completing their loving family. Paul's unexpected passing in 2014 marked a devastating chapter in Kari's life, followed closely by her breast cancer diagnosis. Through it all, she remained devoted to her children, with the loving support of her mother Bernie and the ever-present care of her twin, Dawn.
Kari endured every surgery, treatment, and hardship with grace, strength, and unwavering love for her family. Even as cancer returned in 2021 with relentless force, she faced it with courage and without complaint. Despite the pain, Kari remained a full-time mom, a reliable bank employee, and the heart of her extended family—never missing a celebration, a card game, or the chance to be there for someone else.
She was deeply devoted to her large family, including her 22 nieces and nephews, 36 great-nieces and nephews, several great-great nieces and nephews, and many cousins. She was known for her affection for babies and dogs, her quick laughter, and her ability to make friends wherever she went. Among the many who loved her is Jill McKnight, who became like family through her daughter Samantha's close friendship with Kenzie. Jill and Kari shared a bond that blossomed into true sisterhood.
Kari is survived by her cherished children, David and Samantha; her step-mom Maxine Killian; her sisters Lorrie (Jim) Staley, Linda Killian, Shari Hennessy, Dawn (James) Richards, KaLyn Harding (Galen) Crawford; adopted sister Tammie Miller; brothers Gene (Susan) Killian and Kevin (Cathy) King; mother-in-law Ann Lustenberger; sisters-in-law Laura Bolognese and Donna Lustenberger; and countless extended family members and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul; her brother, Kerry; her father, James; her mother, Berniece; and many beloved nieces, nephews, grandparents, and her brother-in-law.
Kari lived a life defined by strength, kindness, and love. She gave generously, loved deeply, and leaves behind a legacy of resilience and warmth that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at the Lillian Apartments Clubhouse, located at 3003 Overlook Rd., Boise, ID 83704. All who loved Kari are welcome to attend and share memories.

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