WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Karen J. Stevens, age 54, of Sturgis, Michigan went to be with the Lord early Monday morning May 13, 2013 at Fairview Nursing and Rehabilitation in Centreville, Michigan.
She was born March 3, 1959 in Sturgis daughter of Clyde and JoAnn (Collins) Gillette.
Karen was a lifelong Sturgis area resident and was married twice. These marriages ended in divorce.
Karen was one of the founders of the Sturgis Toy Run where she was known as “Squeak”. She had been employed in fast food and Miller’s Grocery Store in Sturgis.
She is survived by her beloved son: Randy (Jennifer) Burtch of Clarksville, Tennessee; mother: JoAnn Berna of Sturgis; two grandchildren: Makayla and Aiden; step-mother: Colette Gillette of Kalamazoo; two brothers: Martin Gillette and Kevin (Kathy) Gillette both of Sturgis; two sisters: Gloria (David) Badiner of Mattawan and Lori (Vic) Crapo of Peru, Indiana; several nieces and nephews; special friend: Laura Klinger and all of her Toy Run friends.
She was preceded in death by her father: Clyde Gillette and step-father: Leldon “Pete” Berna.
In accordance with her wishes cremation has taken place. A memorial service celebrating the life of Karen J. Steven will be held at a later date.
The Hackman Family Funeral Homes – Hackman Chapel, 114 S. Nottawa St., Sturgis, MI 49091, 269-651-2331 is assisting the family with arrangements.
The family suggests those wishing to make a memorial donation in Karen’s memory consider the Sturgis Toy Run, 67014 N. M-66, Sturgis, MI 49091.
