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Karen Heiple
Born: 10/31/1951
Died: 10/5/2025
Age: 73
Community: Bancroft, MI
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Karen Lee Heiple, 73 of Bancroft, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 5, 2025 surrounded by her family.
Karen was born on October 31, 1951 in Owosso, Michigan, the first daughter of Glen Junior and Janis (Walimaki) Love. Karen’s childhood was spent on the family farm, where she loved playing with her siblings and cousins, helping around the house and taking part in 4-H. Those early years taught her the value of hard work, family and community – qualities that shaped her entire life. Karen graduated from Durand High School in 1969, followed by a trip to Hawaii of which she often reminisced. She married Michael J. Heiple on September 18, 1970. Mike and Karen made their home on Cole Road, where they grew their family. Karen devoted her life first and foremost to her family, centered in her Christian faith. As a stay-at-home mom, she poured her heart into raising her two children, never missing a baseball, football or volleyball game, band concert, dance recital, or moment that mattered. Behind the scenes she sewed dance costumes, baked snacks for coffee hour at church, chaperoned field trips, taught Sunday School, VBS and scored ball games. Her steady presence, encouragement, and love shaped not only her children’s lives but their friends as well. Karen was a lifelong, active member of the First Congregational Church of Bancroft, where she served wherever she was needed. After her children were grown, Karen courageously pursued a new chapter, returning to school to become an X-Ray Technician.
In her career at Arnold Medical Clinic, her kindness and compassion touched countless lives. Known for her warm heart, gentle spirit, and creativity, Karen lived a life rooted in care for her family, her friends, and the many patients she helped throughout her career. Beyond her work she enjoyed gardening and crafting, often sharing her handmade creations with those she loved. Whether she decorated a wedding or graduation cake, made a quilt, or a scrapbook; Karen’s creativity was a reflection of her loving and generous nature. Among the greatest joys in Karen’s life were her grandchildren, whom she constantly prayed for and loved. She cherished time spent with family and friends, and her presence brought warmth and comfort to every room. She long enjoyed her ladies coffee group and lunches with her devoted group of friends. Her laughter, thoughtfulness and steady support will be deeply missed. Karen leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness in the hearts of all her knew her. For those who miss her most, she has left a quiet promise: when a hummingbird hovers nearby or a dragonfly lingers in the sunlight, it is her way of sending love from heaven – reminding us she is never far, only transformed into beauty that still graces our days.
Karen is survived by her husband of 55 years; daughter, Julie (Bryan) Halsey, son Michael (Alicia) Heiple; grandchildren, Adia Menna, Ashlynn Halsey, Mason Halsey, Logan Hills and Ella Hills; siblings, Kristine (Gerald) Lostracco, Bill (Becky Landris) Love and Jim (Diane) Love; sisters-in-law, Joy Harris and Marie Crawford; brother-in-law, Jim (Lynn) Heiple; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends whom she adored. She was preceded in death by her parents, Glen Junior and Janis Love; sisters-in-law Linda Heiple and Debra Love, and brother-in-law David Crawford.
The family wishes to thank the generous and caring nurses and doctors of the Sparrow Hospital 10th floor ICU. Memorial Contributions in Karen's name are suggested to Memorial Healthcare Foundation (memorialhealthcare.org) or the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (bloodcancerunited.org). Online condolences may be shared at www.watkinsfuneralhomes.com
A celebration of Karen’s life will be held 6:00 PM on Friday, October 10, 2025 at Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes, 501 N. Saginaw St., Durand, MI 48429. Pastor Mike McDonald will be officiating. Family will receive friends from 4:00 PM until the time of the service. |
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| Visitation |
| Date: |
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10/10/2025 |
| Time: |
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4:00 PM |
| Family will receive friends from 4:00 PM until the time of the service. |
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| Funeral Service |
| Date: |
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10/10/2025 |
| Time: |
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6:00 PM |
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| Location: |
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Watkins Brothers Funeral Home - Durand Chapel
501 N. Saginaw St.
Durand, MI 48429Get a Map to this location...
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| Official: |
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Pastor Mike McDonald |
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