We are saddened to announce the passing of Karen Rockenbach after a courageous three year battle with breast cancer. Karen, age 82, passed away on February 18, 2026, at her home in Geneva National surrounded by her family. She recently celebrated sixty years of marriage with her husband, Wayne.

Karen & Wayne are longtime members of Geneva National, with roots that trace back to the very beginning. They purchased their first lot in 1990—before the roads were even completed—and joined the golf club that same year. In 1991, they proudly played in the inaugural Memorial Day Tournament.

Their memories reach back to the club’s earliest days, when the first 18 holes were formed using two courses: eleven holes from the Trevino Course (1–3 and 9–16) and seven from the Palmer Course (8–11 and 16–18). Karen followed Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, and Lee Trevino as each course opened. In a special full-circle moment, their son even caddied for Trevino.

Karen loved playing golf—both competitively and socially with friends. On the competitive side, she won the inaugural Tournament of Champions in 1992 and went on to claim multiple Senior Women’s Championships and Women’s Triple Crowns. She also recorded two memorable holes-in-one.

Karen will be remembered as having a very positive attitude who loved spending time with her family and friends. She will be missed by many.

A celebration of life in Geneva National will be held this summer.