Karen Patricia Wierenga

Born on March 14, 1947, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Ralph and Margaret Judd, Karen grew up with a love for learning and a deep care for others. She graduated from Maple Heights High School and earned her Bachelor’s degree from Aquinas College.

Karen dedicated over 20 years of her life to teaching at St. Peter and Paul Catholic School, where she impacted countless young lives with her warmth, patience, and passion for education. In 1969, she married the love of her life, Robert Wierenga, and together they built a life filled with love and devotion, sharing 52 wonderful years until Robert’s passing in 2021.

Karen was a woman of many talents and joys. She loved reading, bowling, and crafting beautiful handmade greeting cards, which brought joy to those who received them. Above all, she cherished her role as a wife, mother, and grandmother. Her creativity, kindness, and unwavering support for her family and friends will be deeply missed.

Karen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Wierenga; her parents, Ralph and Margaret Judd; and her parents-in-law, Kenneth and Edith Wierenga.

She is survived by her children: Jeff Wierenga, Sarah (Jeff) Smoger, Matthew (Katelyn) Wierenga, and Patrick (Breanne) Wierenga; grandchildren: Joshua, Alyssa, Karianna, Luke, Benjamin, Ava, Myles, Nicholas, William, Owen, Nora, Zoe, Sawyer, Poppy, and Penny; sisters-in-law: Marsha (Wayne) Fish and Peggy (Larry) Dells; and many extended family members and dear friends.

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, January 24, 2025, at 12:00 PM at Reyers North Valley Chapel, 2815 Fuller Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505. The family will receive guests one hour prior to the service. Karen will be laid to rest at Rosedale Memorial Park Cemetery.

Karen’s family would like to thank everyone for their love and support during this time.

Karen’s legacy of love and kindness will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. She will be missed, but her memory will remain a blessing to all.