WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Karen Sue Schmidt, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, and sister, passed away on March 18, 2026 with family by her side at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo. Born on November 5, 1965 in Sturgis, Karen was a beacon of joy and strength throughout her 60 years.
Karen’s attended White Pigeon High School and graduated with the class of 1984.
Her professional journey was marked by her compassionate service in the medical transportation field. Karen worked for Mall City Ambulance, City of Three Rivers, Parkers Ambulance in Sturgis, Mancino’s Pizza in Sturgis and the HMS Host Indiana Toll Road Service Plaza. Her colleagues remember her as a hardworking and reliable team member who always put the needs of others first.
In June 1994, Karen married Glen Schmidt. Together, they built a loving home and were blessed with two sons, Bryan Teleworth and Rusty Schmidt. Karen’s role as a mother was her most cherished; she nurtured her sons with love, teaching them the value of kindness and hard work.
Karen’s zest for life was evident in her many interests. She relished the great outdoors, often found camping or ATV riding. Her involvement in 4-H with her boys was a testament to her commitment to her children’s growth and learning. Above all, Karen valued the time spent with her friends, who could always count on her for a listening ear and a hearty laugh.
Family was the cornerstone of Karen’s life. She is survived by her devoted husband, Glen Schmidt; her sons, Bryan (Crystal) Teleworth and Rusty Schmidt; her granddaughters, Bella and Finny, who brought immense joy to her later years; her mother, Joy Sanford; and her siblings, Jim (Lori) Sanford, Rick Sanford, Ron (Peggy) Sanford, Debi Sanford, and Darlene Trine. Karen’s presence will be profoundly missed, but her legacy of love and kindness will continue to live on through them.
Karen was preceded in death by her father, Richard “Dick” Sanford, and her brother, Richard “Rich” W. Sanford. Their memories remained a cherished part of her heart, and their influence on her life was profound.
A Celebration of Life for Karen will be on Saturday, April 18, 2026 from 1:00 to 4:00 at the White Pigeon Train Depot, 406 S St Joseph St, White Pigeon. Keeping with Karen’s wishwes, she will be laid to rest by her father in Sidnaw Cemetery, Sidnaw, Michigan.
Her unwavering spirit and the love she shared will forever be remembered by those who were fortunate enough to know her. Karen’s journey through life was a testament to the power of love, family, and friendship. Her memory will continue to inspire and comfort those she has left behind.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Farrand Funeral Home, White Pigeon.
