Karen Ann Nisja's Obituary
Karen Ann Nisja, age 62, of Grand Haven passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, November 4, 2020, at home. She was born August 20, 1958, in Elkhart, Indiana, to Claus Henry and Frances “Miriam” (Gallop) Geisel, and married Eric Nisja on January 15, 1984, at Calvin College Chapel. Karen and Eric were introduced to each other when friends set them up on a blind date, while Karen was working at Butterworth Hospital.
Karen was a very active member of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Grand Haven, and other community organizations. She went to Calvin College and became a licensed practical nurse, then went on to Muskegon Community College and became a registered nurse. Karen worked for twenty-nine years at Medi Lodge at The Shore. She loved her dogs, Cocoa, Bella and Daisy.
She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Eric Nisja; daughter, Andrea (Frank Galindo) Nisja; son, Trevor Nisja; mother-in-law, Georgia Nisja; and her brother, Karl (Jacquelyn) Geisel. She was preceded in death by her parents, and numerous cousins.
Karen will be commended to God at a Solemn Requiem Eucharist at St. John’s Episcopal Church, Grand Haven, on Saturday, November 7, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. Due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, only invited guests of the family will be able to attend. However, the service will be streamed live at the church’s website at www.sjegh.com and at www.tinyurl.com/karennisja. with The Rev. Dr. Jared C. Cramer officiating. Interment will be at St. John’s Episcopal Church. Memorials to St. John’s Episcopal Church are appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, MI 49417. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.sytsemafh.com.
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