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Karen Ann Kannegieter, age 84, of rural Centreville, passed away at her home on Monday, January 6, 2025 with her family at her side. She was born in Kalamazoo on January 14, 1940 the daughter of Gerard “Jack” Linders and Mary (Lewis) Linders. Karen was a 1958 graduate of Kalamazoo Central High School, and later attended Tracey Beauty Academy. She worked briefly at the Ingersoll Company and at Zayers Department Store in Kalamazoo. She worked at several area beauty salons including Cornetts, the Hair Center, and Hair Cutters in Kalamazoo.
Karen was married to William Lee “Bill” Kannegieter on September 4, 1959 in Kalamazoo. They resided in Kalamazoo for 16 years before moving to Vicksburg. For the past 30 years they have enjoyed their home along the St. Joseph River in Nottawa Township.
Karen was very family oriented and loved playing games, quilting and sewing for them. She enjoyed ceramics and bowling in area leagues at Air-Way Lanes. She grew up a Detroit Tigers fan, and enjoyed being outdoors in the sun. The proud owner of a classic Ford Mustang, she looked forward to attending the area car shows.
Karen is survived by her husband of 65 years, Bill Kannegieter; son Dan (Shali) Kannegieter of Vicksburg; daughter, Shellie (Dick) Snyder of Mendon; five grandchildren, Dan (Lauren) Kannegieter of Vicksburg, Megan (Shayne) Merriman of Virginia, Jessica Walker of Pennsylvania, Chad (Katie) Snyder of Three Rivers, and Kylie (Jacob) Rowe of Vicksburg; ten great-grandchildren, Noah, Aleigha, Braelyn, Nash, Indy (on the way), Dexter, Willow, Margot, Wrenlie, and Truett; two brothers, Howard Linders and Richard (Nancy) Linders. She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Jack and Don; and by three sisters, Marilyn, Judy, and Mary Beth.
In keeping with her wishes, cremation has been conducted. The family will receive friends from 11 am to 12 noon Saturday, January 11, 2025 at the Mendon United Methodist Church. Services will begin at 12 noon Saturday with Pastor Carl Litchfield officiating followed by a gathering in the social room of the church. It is suggested that memorial donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com
