Karen Rose Heiler

Karen Rose Heiler, age 72, of Dansville Michigan, passed away after having pancreatic cancer on Holy Thursday, April 17, 2025 She was born October 13th, 1952 to Rose and Reuel Hartwick of Mason, Michigan.

Karen was born and raised in Mason and graduated from Mason High School in 1970. She was a lifelong member of St. James Catholic church where she met Charles Heiler Jr. In May of 1972, they married.Together, they raised 2 children: Laura (Brett) Wallis of Indiana, and Gregg Heiler of Grand Rapids. Karen was a beloved grandmother of six grandchildren. Logan & Luke Hidey, Connor & Emily Wallis, and Azalea & Nadalina Heiler.

She worked various jobs in her lifetime. She was a waitress at Dog N Suds of Mason where Charli would frequent to see her, she was a bookkeeper at Bud Kouts of Lansing, The State of Michigan, and for Dansville Public Schools, retiring after 28 years of service at Dansville.

Karen is survived by her husband Charles Heiler of 53 years. two brothers, Dan Hartwick of Mason and Larry (Connie) Hartwick of Holt, and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.

Karen was an active volunteer at St. James Catholic Church where she was a Knights’ Angel, donating her time and talents to causes that were dear to her heart. Karen and Charles were recognized as Family of the year at St. James.. Karen loved humming country music (especially Dolly Parton), lunch with friends, Chinese food, and bowling and she was able to bowl until her final days. She was also the president of the bowling league at City Limits. Karen loved sending cards to family and friends. She knew it brought them smiles and joy. She loved Christmas, she had 3 different themed trees and would leave the tree up all year long if it were up to her!

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Rose Burgess and Reuel Hartwick; her sister, Sandi Hartwick; her brother-in-law, Ronald Heiler; her niece, Hailey Hunter and most recently, her sister-in-law, Jeanette Hartwick.

She will be missed by all who knew her.

A Rosary will be held in her honor beginning at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at St. James Catholic Church, located at 1010 S Lansing St, Mason, MI 48854. Visitation will follow at 10:00 a.m., with the funeral service commencing at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will be held at the church following the service. Burial will take place afterward at Fairview Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please donate in her memory to Saint James Catholic Church of Mason or The American Cancer Society.