Obituary of Karen O'Connor
Karen Mae Rod was born on June 26, 1943 in Monroe, Michigan. She was one of five children born from the union of the late Dallas and Alma Mae (Wittman) Rod. Karen attended Dundee High School where she would graduate with the Class of 1961.
She would meet the love of her life, Robert L. O’Connor. The young couple was wed on October 17, 1964 in Dundee. Soon they would be blessed with two daughters and the happy family would make their home in Dundee. In addition to providing for the needs of her husband and daughters, Karen, was employed at her father’s gas station and drove school bus for Dundee Community Schools for many years. Later, she would take a position with Michigan Otolaryngology Surgery Associates and then for Dundee Family care before having to take a medical retirement in 2010.
Karen enjoyed spending time at the family’s up north Houghton Lake cabin. More than anything she treasured being a part of grandchildren’s lives. She often attended their sporting events, and in fact it seemed to keep her going everyday looking forward to where she was supposed to be every night to cheer them on! Karen also valued the time spent with her siblings and other family gathering for breakfast at Bricktown Coney Island. She thoroughly adored her “people”.
Karen O’Connor, age 77, of Dundee passed away at 9:45am on Tuesday; April 27, 2021 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor. In addition to her parents her passing was preceded by her beloved husband of forty-nine years: Robert O’Connor; one brother: Richard Rod; and one granddaughter: Ryleigh Renee Bolster.
To cherish her memory, she leaves two daughters: Renee (Dan) Bolster and Traci (Ken) Fietz; four grandchildren: Dallas Bolster, Drew Bolster, Ashley Fietz, and Austin Fietz; two brothers: Dallas Rod and Larry (Sandy) Rod; and one sister: Cindy (Don) Labert.
Friends may gather on Sunday; May 2, 2021 from 2:00pm-8:00pm at Dundee United Methodist Church; 645 Franklin Street, Dundee, Michigan 48131. A Worship Service Celebrating Her Life, led by Pastor Brad Luck will take place on Monday May 3, 2021 at 11:00am also at Dundee United Methodist Church. (Attendance is set at 50% capacity allowing up to 120 guests). Procession to Maple Grove Cemetery will follow the services. Merkle Funeral Service, Dundee; 297 Tecumseh Street, Dundee, Michigan 48131 (734) 529-3156 was entrusted with her care.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family or to the Dundee Fire or Police department.
Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.