Karen was born October 29, 1946 to Martin and Gertrude (Compagner) Dyk in Ionia, Michigan.

Growing up in the small town of Saranac, the daughter of a teacher and the hardware store owner, everyone knew Karen and watched her grow. Playing the clarinet from a young age, she went on to perform with the award-winning Saranac High School Marching Band, “the coolest band in all the land”. After graduating Salutatorian in 1964 she attended Grand Rapids Junior College, University of Michigan, and received her Masters Degree from Michigan State University.

Karen began her 34 year career in teaching at Grand Haven Elementary and from 1977 through her retirement she taught at Leland Public School. Her career as an educator touched many lives; ensuring everyone had the tools they needed to grow and flourish, leaving a legacy that lives on in those she taught. She retired from teaching in 2004.

In addition to the fulfillment Karen received from her career in teaching, she also enjoyed travelling and expressing her creativity through sewing and gardening, and in the design and construction of both of her Leelanau County residences. In 2003 she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and throughout the progression of the disease remained active in her hobbies and with family and friends. Karen celebrated the recent birth of her grandchild, Amani Christopher; and is also survived by her two sons; Kelly Sean (Christen) Karcher, Jacob (Cheryl) Christopher; a sister, Kathy (Paul Calvin) Powell; and nephew Jonah (Carrie) Powell. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Karen’s absence is already being felt and she will be missed.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Power Book Bags. A celebration of life will be held later in the year.

Please share condolences with the family at www.martinson.info.