Karen Dunn

Karen Dunn passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 8, 2024, surrounded by her family. She was 77 years old. Born and raised in Jackson, Michigan, Karen was a lifelong and dedicated Michigan Wolverine football fan, never missing a chance to celebrate a victory — especially the win over the Buckeyes this season.

A skilled golfer and a cherished mentor, Karen believed in nurturing people’s talents rather than changing them. She had a unique ability to offer subtle adjustments to a golfer's swing that made a world of difference, teaching many not only how to improve their game but also how to enjoy it more fully.

Karen was also an accomplished needlepointer, lovingly creating handmade ornaments and tree skirts for her family that became treasured heirlooms. Her generous spirit extended to everyone around her, and there was always a seat at her table for friends and family, often filled with laughter and good conversation.

A woman with a sharp wit and a wonderful sense of humor, Karen often credited her father for teaching her the importance of timing and the art of a well-told joke. That legacy lived on in her, and she made sure it was passed down to future generations.

She was a devoted mother, grandmother, wife, sister, and daughter. Karen was predeceased by her beloved husband, Douglas Dunn. She is survived by her four children, Emily (Kris), Andrew (Kendall), Justin (Sarah), and Thomas, along with her four beloved grandchildren: Kayden, Holden, Andrew IV, and Kenley.

In her later years, Karen dedicated time to tracing her family’s heritage, working to preserve the story of where she came from so that future generations could carry on the legacy. Her passion for family history was a reflection of her deep love for those who came before her.

Known for her warmth and kindness, Karen never met a stranger. If you gave her a chance, she would always be your friend.

Karen had a special place in her heart for the farm life she and Doug shared while raising their four children. Along with caring for her kids, she managed a small farm that included four pigs, a few horses, and a flock of chickens that provided fresh eggs to both her family and grateful neighbors. She often shared fond memories of her degree in poultry management, an entertaining supplement to her University of Michigan degree. One of her favorite stories was about the time Doug brought home a cow — an addition to the farm that Karen quickly declared was unwelcome. The cow was returned the same day.

A lover of good food, Karen particularly enjoyed going out for sushi. She cherished sitting at the sushi bar with her family (especially her grandson), building relationships with the chefs wherever she went. She often laughed about the time she visited Japan, where her perfectly mixed soy sauce with wasabi and ginger was deemed "messy" and taken away — only to be replaced with a fresh dish.

In honor of Karen’s love for giving, the family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a local orphanage. In this season of giving, help bring love and warmth to children without a family of their own.

Only private family services are planned, but Karen’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.