Karen Marie Allbee

Her greatest love was her family. She was a devoted mother and a proud grandmother who poured into her children and grandchildren with unconditional love, support, and presence. She had a way of making each person feel important, seen, and deeply cared for.

But her impact reached far beyond her immediate family. She was “Mom” or “Ma” to many—someone others leaned on, learned from, and found comfort in. Her home and her heart were always open.

She was a friend to many and a listening ear to all. People trusted her, not just because she would listen, but because she genuinely cared and made them feel understood.

She had a laugh that could light up a room—one that brought joy, warmth, and connection wherever she went. It was unforgettable, just like her spirit.

She loved music, she loved to read, and she loved her Diet Coke. If you knew her, you knew that—those simple things that became part of who she was and how people remember her.

She leaves behind a legacy of strength, love, and connection—a life that touched many and will continue to live on through all who knew her.

She is survived by her son, Michael Reiger, and his wife, Cameron Reiger; their children, Devyn Reiger and Alex Reiger; and her daughter, Ashley Smith, and her wife, Kamara Sokoloski, along with Ashley’s son, Michael Ward.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Melvina Olson; her sisters, Erin Olson and Janet O’Brien; and her brother-in-law, Ben O’Brien.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 9th from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the VFW Post 701, located at 123 N. Rosemary Street, Lansing, MI 48917.