Karen Lee Smeltzer

Our beloved mother, sister, aunt, cousin, friend and neighbor, Karen Lee Smeltzer was called home to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, March 3, 2025. Though she is now in the loving embrace of her creator, her light continues to shine here on earth in the hearts of her family, friends and community to whom she showed extraordinary kindness, compassion and service.

Karen was born in Monroe, MI on January 4, 1946, the youngest child of Lennis Sr and Mildred (Bressler) Savage. She grew up in Monroe and attended Jefferson Schools, where she became the Valedictorian of the inaugural graduating class in 1963. After high school, she worked at Brickley Dairy of Detroit and then at Gould Battery, where she met her future husband, James Smeltzer of Monroe. Eventually Karen returned to Jefferson Schools, where she served as bookkeeper for the school district for decades until her retirement.

Karen married James Smeltzer November 11, 1967, and the couple welcomed their only child, beloved Paula Jo Smeltzer, into the world on August 8, 1969. Karen loved being a wife and mother, and she shared a beautiful and unbreakable bond with her daughter, a connection evident to all who knew them.

Karen enjoyed sports and was an avid bowler for many years. She was a true Spartan fan, often attending Michigan State University games with her daughter and son-in-law, Todd Rinness. She had a gift of bringing joy to family gatherings, introducing new games and bringing people together in laughter. She treasured times spent with loved ones, whether playing cards, working on a puzzle, or simply sharing stories. Traveling was another of Karen’s great joys. In 1994, she embarked on one of her most cherished adventures, visiting Italy with her sister, Nancy Souva, and attending Easter Mass at the Vatican. After the passing of her husband, she continued her travels, frequently visiting Florida and Arizona with Paula and Todd.

A devout Catholic, Karen dedicated herself to faith and her church community. She was an active member of St. Mary’s Christian Women, offering comfort and support to those in need. She also generously volunteered her time with the ProMedica Hospital Guild, extending her spirit of service beyond her church in the wider community.

Karen is survived by her son-in-law, Todd, sister Nancy Souva, her brother James (Barbara) Runyon, sisters-in- law, Rosann Runyon, Nancy Savage and Michelle Savage along with many nieces, nephews and cousins. She is preceded in death by her parents, Lennis Sr. and Mildred Savage, her beloved husband James; her cherished daughter Paula, and her brothers Neal Runyon, Lennis Savage Jr, and Robert Savage.

Karen Lee Smeltzer was beloved by all who knew her. She is admired for her unwavering kindness and the rare ability to never speak an unkind or critical word. She was dependable, compassionate, generous, intelligent and patient. Her absence will be deeply felt, but her legacy of love and grace will remain. As she ascends to join her beloved husband and daughter, we take comfort in knowing she is now at peace.

Memorial contributions in honor of Karen may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church or the charity of donor’s choice.