Karen (Morrison) Smith's Obituary
Karen (Morrison) Smith, age 84, passed away peacefully in Muskegon, MI, on Sunday, May 12, 2024. Karen was born in Muskegon on November 27, 1939, to Paul and Jo (Reinholdt) Morrison. In August of 1957 she married Chuck Smith; he preceded her in death in 2004. Together they had three children who survive her: Brad (Janet Plave) Smith of Eaton Rapids, MI; Kelly Smith of Norton Shores, MI; and Brian Smith of Fountain Inn, SC. Karen was a true unsung heroine. She extended many kindnesses in her lifetime to others with no desire for attention or accolades for doing so. She and her husband were foster parents to numerous infants over the years, caring for each child as their own while they were awaiting adoption into their forever homes. Karen was a retired licensed practical nurse. Throughout her nursing career Karen worked with Mercy Health as a floor nurse and dialysis nurse, and she ended her career working as a nurse at Mercy Glen Rehab Center. She loved being a nurse and made many friends throughout her career. She always said if it hadn’t been for her Multiple Sclerosis she never would have retired. Karen will be remembered fondly for her quick-witted sense of humor, her practical approach to life, her love of watching birds and other wildlife, and her ability to talk on the phone for hours with her many family members and friends.
Karen will be lovingly remembered by her three children; grandchildren: Sara (Don) Norton, Ben (Heidi) Smith, Adam (Sanna) Herrala Bricker, Cameron (Winsome) Bricker, Mia Bricker, Briana Smith, and Charlotte Smith; six great-grandchildren; sister: Deborah (Bradley) Hyde; brother, Paul J. (Carol Heim) Morrison; daughters in-law: Wendy Smith and Patty Cramer; and many other nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Betty (James) Neel.
Per Karen’s wishes no services are taking place, but memorial contributions may be made to the National Wildlife Federation (https://www.nwf.org/). Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St, Norton Shores, MI, 49444.
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