Karen Beth Stephens

Karen Beth Stephens (formerly Drake) (born March 30th, 1953 in Linden Michigan) was the only survivor of a twin pregnancy. She spent her early years and young adulthood living in the Michigan area. Often, she would reminisce about her adventures with her childhood playmates and cousins, Diane (now residing in Florida) and Sandra (now sadly deceased). She loved learning, and excelled in many academic areas, including political science, literature (journalism, writing poetry and short stories), and music (accomplished pianist and singer).

She lived a number of years in Canada with her young family, but she returned once again to the Great Lakes State. With a heart for helping people, she worked tirelessly as a City Commissioner for the City of Sturgis for many years, trying to make a positive difference for her community. She was also a Deacon for the First Presbyterian Church of Sturgis.

She worked hard making her house a home for her family, and considered it her honour to provide Elective Home Learning for her four children through grades 1-12.

Some of her hobbies included antiquing and collecting Shirley Temple memorabilia.

On the 27th day of January 2024 at the age of 70, Karen lost her second battle with Cancer. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, Karen is survived by her husband John, her four children; Kerry, John Jr. (wife Tam), Jared (wife Elaine), and Kelly (husband Patrick), her seven grandchildren (Kristina, Christopher, John, Jacob, James, Finbar and Fiadh), her mother Margaret, and her siblings: Daniel, Larry, Patti, Andrew, and Gail.

Her deep love for the arts will continue to be expressed in her children and grandchildren, as she will continue to live on in our hearts and memories.

Below is a poem she wrote in celebration of all Mothers. Let her gentle and expressive soul speak to you as you read her words.

“Memories”

I stand between the past and now,

With memories that haunt my heart,

And see, in visions, distant roads,

Where travelers long ago did part.

The mothers of my life and I,

As mother, too, converge as one,

To see their eyes; the windowed soul,

Will ever see, when else is gone.

The precious gift of loving hands,

The nurturing of babe and child,

So long a time has passed, it seems,

Subconscious soil that dreams have tilled.

The mothers of my life stand fast,

Beside me, walking as I go,

And breathing hope into my heart,

And gently love my weary soul.

The day will come when once again,

I’ll see these women face to face.

And walk with them beside my girls,

With whispered touch their souls embrace.

Karen Stephens    ©05/02/2006

Additional Information:

No gifts are necessary, however, if a token gift is desired, in lieu of flowers, a monetary donation to help defray funeral costs would be much appreciated. For information on how to donate please email Kerry Stephens at karielynn22@hotmail.com .There will also be a condolences box available at the memorial service for Karen and her loved ones, to be held at the First Presbyterian Church of Sturgis set at the 7th of February at 11am for any cards or notes of condolence for the family. All are welcome to attend.