Somebody Knows Something: Episode 11 – Remembering Karen Schepers

Release Date: May 12, 2025

Introduction and Season Conclusion

In the poignant final episode of Season 1, "Remembering Karen Schepers," hosts Detective Andrew Houghton and Detective Matt Vartanian of the Elgin Police Department Cold Case Unit bring listeners to a heartfelt close of the investigation into the disappearance of Karen Schepers. This episode not only marks the resolution of a decades-old mystery but also serves as a tribute to Karen's life and the enduring quest for justice and closure by her loved ones.

The Memorial and Funeral Service

The episode opens with a description of Karen's funeral held on April 16, 2025, exactly 42 years after her disappearance on April 16, 1983. Detective Houghton shares the emotional atmosphere of the Sycamore United Methodist Church, adorned in deep purple for Easter—a symbol of remembrance and rebirth.

Chief Anna Lally [01:04]: "We believe that the Elgin Police Department and our community can work together to bring closure to cold cases because we know that in these cases, somebody knows something."

Detective Vartanian provides a vivid account of the attendees, including Karen's siblings and friends from various states, highlighting the widespread impact of Karen's life and disappearance.

Detective Matt Vartanian [03:52]: "The church was filled with photographs of Karen... depicting the brief and beautiful life of Karen Shepers."

Families placed cherished items in a shadow box, symbolizing the love and memories they held dear. A moving poem read by Detective Houghton encapsulated the collective yearning for peace and closure.

Detective Andrew Houghton [05:03]: "You must feel like a bird that has been flying non stop... You can rest Your little beating heart for the searching is needed no more."

Reflections from Karen’s Family

The episode deeply delves into the emotions and reflections of Karen's family members, providing a personal glimpse into their journey towards closure.

• Dale Schepers, Karen's younger brother, shares his sense of regret and the peace he feels knowing Karen is finally home.

  Dale Schepers [07:58]: "I'm sorry that it took us this long... it does offer a very good sense of closure and peace for us that she's now there."

  Dale also discusses the emotional significance of the song "The Promise" he sang at Karen's funeral, symbolizing eternal hope and reunion.

• Susan Shepers, Karen's sister, emphasizes the importance of closure in completing the "circle of life."

  Susan Shepers [12:19]: "Without that, it was just an open circle and it never closed until we had the funeral."

  She reflects on the miracle of finding Karen and expresses boundless gratitude to those who assisted in resolving the case.

  Susan Shepers [14:14]: "It was a miracle... it's incredible."

• Gary Shepers, the eldest sibling, conveys his transformation from skepticism to hope, highlighting the profound impact of finally finding Karen.

  Gary Shepers [17:35]: "I have an entirely different view of the world since the day that you came over."

  He also voices frustration towards those who doubted the nature of Karen's disappearance, reaffirming the value of a dedicated cold case unit.

  Gary Shepers [19:46]: "The family just does not believe that to be the case."

• Liz Shepers, Karen's mother, embodies unwavering dedication and resilience. She acknowledges the emotional weight lifted by Karen's return while still grappling with lingering sadness.

  Liz Shepers [36:58]: "It is the weight is off your shoulders, and that's a good feeling. But there are also sad feelings that come here and there."

  Liz credits her relentless efforts and hope for bringing Karen home, underscoring her pivotal role in the investigation.

Voices of Friendship and Community

Karen's close friends, Heidi and Denise, alongside co-worker Eloise, share their own journeys of hope, loss, and closure, illustrating the far-reaching effects of Karen's disappearance and eventual recovery.

• Heidi, who shared a deep bond with Karen, recounts her emotional turmoil upon learning of Karen's fate and the bittersweet closure it brought.

  Heidi [25:02]: "It was comforting to know that her remains are someplace we know where they're at, and now they're in a comfortable place for her to rest."

  She emphasizes the importance of holding onto memories and hope.

  Heidi [25:55]: "Just miracles can happen."

• Denise, a lifelong friend, reflects on her unwavering belief in Karen's return, attributing it to faith and prayer.

  Denise [29:36]: "The power of prayer and that spiritual belief that there would be answers."

  Her optimism serves as an inspiration for others to maintain hope in the face of uncertainty.

• Eloise, Karen's co-worker and organizer of the Karen Shepers Action Committee, shares her experience of supporting Karen's memory over the years and her emotional response to the case's resolution.

  Eloise [31:10]: "You guys are giving me hope... that could happen is just incredible."

  She encourages active participation and holistic investigation in cold cases.

  Eloise [34:53]: "Participate if you can and pray a lot."

Final Reflections and Closure

Detectives Houghton and Vartanian conclude the episode by expressing their profound gratitude to Karen's family, friends, and the community for their unwavering support and cooperation throughout the investigation.

Detective Matt Vartanian [41:00]: "It has just been an overwhelmingly positive experience with the family. It really has been a true honor and a privilege to work with the Shepers family on Karen's case."

They also extend thanks to the team at WRMN 1410, Chief Anna Lally, and other contributors who played instrumental roles in solving the case. The detectives emphasize the collective effort that made Karen's return possible.

In their final moments at Elmwood Cemetery, the detectives pay their respects to Karen, symbolizing the end of a long and emotional journey.

Detective Andrew Houghton [39:12]: "No longer lost and never forgotten. Karen Lee Shepers can finally rest in peace knowing that she has been found."

Acknowledgments and Call to Action

The episode closes with a heartfelt acknowledgment of all those involved and a reminder for listeners to remain vigilant and supportive in cold case investigations.

Chief Anna Lally [42:35]: "If you or anyone you know has information about this case or any other cold case in Elgin, please contact the Elgin Police Department Cold Case email@coldcasetipselginil.gov or the cold case tip line at 1-847-289-XXXX."

Conclusion

"Remembering Karen Schepers" serves as a testament to the power of persistence, community collaboration, and unwavering hope. Through intimate interviews and personal reflections, the Elgin Police Department Cold Case Unit not only solved a tragic mystery but also provided a meaningful closure to Karen's family and friends. This episode underscores the profound impact that dedicated individuals and community support can have in uncovering the truth and honoring those who have been lost.