Karen S. Klein (East Lansing)

Karen Klein was born July 13, 1956 in Marshall, Michigan, daughter of Burl and Lucille Harper.

Karen loved learning and graduated with her Masters Degree from Michigan State University. She taught for over 20 years at North Aurelius Elementary and enjoyed being in a 4th grade classroom. After her first retirement, she coordinated education programs through the Asian Studies Program of the International Center at Michigan State University, where she frequently talked about the joy she found in her "second career". Her volunteer efforts have spanned the globe over the years - most notably her work with the LATTICE program, Potter Park Zoo, Haslett Community Church Food Bank, tutoring, visiting senior homes with her beloved dog, Murphy, as well as many others. Karen loved to travel and learn of other cultures. She passionately loved her grandchildren, reading and watching sunsets on Birch Lake.

Karen is survived by her daughter, Jamie Carnes, Son In Law, Kyle Carnes and her four grandchildren, Alexandra, Silas, Josiah and Aidan; her mother, Lucille Harper; her sister, Amy Turik and Brother In Law, Scott Turik, as well as her neice, Emily Lalmi, and nephew Carson Turik; her brother, Michael Harper, and Sister In Law, April Harper. Karen is beloved by many other counsins, aunts, uncles, god-children and friends.

Donations can be made in Karen's honor to Potter Park Zoo.

Checks can be sent to:

Potter Park Zoological Society

Attn: Development Department

1301 S. Pennsylvania Ave.

Lansing, MI 48912

Please be sure to include Karen's name with the donation to ensure all funds are directed together.

A celebration of Karen's life will be shared on Saturday, February 4, 2023 at Haslett Community Church at 11AM. The church is located at 1427 Haslett Road in Haslett, MI. All are invited to stay for a reception and fellowship after the service.

A live stream will also be available of the service, for those who are not able to be present in person. For the live stream link, please email Jamie Carnes at jamielynn.carnes@gmail.com