She was preceded in death by her father, Jacob Smith; mother, Maxine Smith; sister, Marlene Koetsier. She is survived by her husband, Lynn Herman; daughter, Susan (Gordon) Toering; son, Robert (Lori) Herman; grandchildren Stephanie Nichols (Tyler), Sarah Holey (Jon), Ryan Toering (Lauren), Zachary Toering, Stacie Toering, Kaylee Herman, Jordan Herman, Joshua Herman; great-grandchildren Levi Nichols, Riley Nichols, Greyson Nichols, Aiden Holey, Micah Holey, Abram Toering.
Karen was a devoted wife and was married over 63 years to her high school sweetheart, Lynn. She graduated from Ottawa Hills High School and received her teaching degree from Michigan State University. She enjoyed teaching first and second grade for many years at Northview. She absolutely loved working with children and building relationships with each of them and their families.
Karen found joy in making lifelong memories with family and friends. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought so much happiness and laughter in her life. She had a huge heart and was always committed to helping others by making them feel loved and cared for. She enjoyed traveling, camping, boating, horseback riding, sewing, flower arranging, and playing games. She also loved singing - she found comfort in hymns, especially during last few years of her life.
It was important to Karen to be a part of her grandkids' childhood, including taking the time to create fun crafts, game nights, and holiday parties. The most memorable event she planned was the annual construction/decorating of gingerbread houses with her husband and grandkids, where they took over the dining room table for hours with creativity and laughter. Spending time with family and friends meant so much to her.
Visitation will be held from 4:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, September 17, 2026 at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Friday, September 18, 2026 at Cook Memorial Chapel, with visitation from 10-11 a.m. prior to service. In honor of Karen and in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Northlawn United Methodist Church or a charity of your choice. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.
