Martha Karen Zeitzmann

The life of Martha Karen Zeitzmann can be summed up by that one simple Phrase. Diagnosed with Tuberculosis as a young girl, Karen was not expected to live, but she did. The prognosis from the doctors was that she would not live past the age of 30. She surpassed that mark by 58 years until finally she succumbed to age and frailty and in the comfort of her home, she passed away on May, 2, 2026 leaving a Void in our lives.

Her milestones and achievements are numerous. After graduating from the University of Houston Magna Cum Laude with a masters degree in Environmental Space Planning, Karen went on to acclaim as an interior designer and artist. But, she found true contentment in the making of porcelain dolls, always taking great care in every facet of the process. From sculpting the body and making the molds, sewing the clothes and shoes, painting the features and weaving the hair, She was meticulous in her attention to every detail. The results were numerous accolades in the form of magazine articles and countless awards from the National Institute of American Doll artists praising her skill.

But by far the greatest joy of her life was in designing and implementing the art and environment of her parish sanctuary. Beautifying the church with flowers and linens, painstakingly painted and hand stitched, Karen felt a closeness to our lord as she labored to glorify Him through the keenness of her mind and the skill of her fingers that had been given to her by the grace of God.

After almost a century full of life and love, Karen leaves behind a husband of 67 years, Robert Francis, two sons, Robert dale and Daniel Keith, Three grandchildren, Robert Mark, Rachel Dominique and Christina Gabrielle, and two adorable great grandchildren, Keyson Ryan Smith and Kario Emmit Smith. All will miss her and love her eternally.

All by the grace of God.