Karen Marie Michaeli, age 64, of Leander, Texas, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on December 15, 1959, in St. Louis, Missouri, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Cecilia Shelley.
Karen was an inspiration and best friend to her husband of 38 years, George Michaeli. She was a loving and dedicated mother to her children: Christina (John), Nichole, Jaclyn and granddaughters: Emmalyn and Mia.
Karen spent her career as a dedicated educator, influencing countless lives during her 19 years as an elementary school teacher, most recently at Haynes Elementary in Killeen, Texas. She was known for her passion for reading, her endless energy, and her ability to inspire students both inside and out of the classroom. She held a master’s degree in Gifted Education and Reading from Hardin-Simmons University.
In her free time, Karen loved visiting family, going to the movies, embarking on adventures, taking trips to the ocean, racing go-karts, attempting to nurture plants back to life, and socializing with everyone she encountered. She lived every day to the fullest and believed that each day should be filled with laughter.
Karen will be remembered for her boundless energy, laughter, and unwavering love for her family, friends, and furry companions, Sadie and Coco. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion and knowledge that will continue to inspire those who knew her.
Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Cecilia Shelley. She is survived by her husband, George, children: Christina (John), Nichole, and Jaclyn, grandchildren: Emmalyn and Mia, siblings: Connie (Mike), Jo Ann (Jim), Michael, Patty (Bill), Dennis (Kathy), and Mary (Dan), as well as many extended family members.
Karen’s family will welcome friends for visitation at Cook-Walden Davis Funeral Home in Georgetown, Texas on Sunday, July 7, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, with a rosary occurring at 5:00 PM.
A funeral mass will occur Monday, July 8, 2024 at 10:30 AM at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, 1101 W New Hope Dr, Cedar Park, Texas 78613. Karen will be laid to rest following the service at 1:00 PM at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery, 11463 TX-195, Killeen, Texas 76542.
Following the interment, family and friends are invited to join in a celebration of Karen’s life at Cook-Walden Davis Funeral Home in Georgetown, Texas beginning at 2:30 PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society in memory of Karen’s courageous battle with cancer.
