Karen Ann Walker

Karen Ann Walker at age 84, returned to the Lord on March 29, 2026. Born December 26, 1941, in Watervliet, Michigan, Karen was the cherished, compassionate, beloved daughter of Roy Edward Martin of Coloma, Michigan, and Elinor Celeste Lekholm. She resided in Surprise, Arizona. After graduating from Coloma High School in 1960, Karen earned a Bachelor of Science from Western Michigan University in 1964 and later completed a Master of Arts in Teaching at Saginaw Valley University in 1990.

Karen devoted 30 years to Warren Consolidated Schools in Warren, Michigan, where she served as a Teacher of Hearing-Impaired students. Her work reflected a steady commitment to helping others and to meeting each student with patience and care.

A dedicated community member, Karen was involved with the Sterling Heights Lioness Club (1983) in Michigan, the Chesterfield Bay Lions Club in Michigan, and the Peoria Sunset Lions Club in Arizona. She was also affiliated with Saint Clare of Assisi Catholic Church in Surprise, AZ. Karen held many offices in her clubs, especially President of the Sterling Heights Lioness Club and Secretary of Peoria Sunset Lions Club. She traveled to many states and countries representing Lions Clubs International while John served as an International Director.

Karen loved being a parent and grandparent. She enjoyed sewing, ceramics, and reading, and she found joy in travel, camping, bowling, golf, cards, bingo, and casinos—activities that brought family and friends together and created lasting memories.

Karen is survived by husband she wed on married August 21, 1965, John F. Walker of Surprise, AZ whom she recently celebrated 60 years of marriage.; Son Michael Walker and wife Kimberly of Phoenix, AZ, and Granddaughter Erika of Ann Arbor, MI; Daughter Jennifer Kocsis and husband William and grandson Chad and granddaughter Emily of St. Clair, Michigan; and Brother Erick Martin of Kalamazoo, Michigan; Brother-in-law Thomas Walker (Elizabeth) of Battle Creek, MI; Sister-in-law Judith (Robert) Rider of Fowlerville, MI; and Sister-in-law Susan (John) Ward of Parma, OH.

Karen was preceded in death by siblings Lynnea, Wayne and Evert.

In lieu of flowers, please consider providing a donation to below organizations in honor of her to The Lions Club International Foundation and A New Leaf.