Karen E. (Johansen) Wheeler

     Karen E. Wheeler, 85, long-time resident of Elbridge Township, Hart, Michigan, entered into her heavenly home on September 29, 2021. Karen was born November 25, 1935 in Montague, Michigan, to Norman and Dorothy (Gilliland) Johansen. She grew up with her sister, Melva, on the family farm in Grant Township and graduated from Montague High School and Western Michigan University. Karen married Walter A. Wheeler on July 12, 1958 in Hart, sharing 58 years of marriage until his death in April, 2017. 
     Karen taught elementary school for several years before raising a family and helping with the family farm, fresh-pack produce business, and home-style jams and pies.  Karen and Walt were active in church, 4-H, and many other community activities.
     Karen is survived by her children Alan (Marilyn) Wheeler, David (Jana) Wheeler, Jean (Richard) Ruzzin, and Laura (Daniel) Hintz; grandchildren Jacob (Laura) Wheeler, Joel, Hannah, Luke, Rachel, Sarah, Benjamin, and Sonya Wheeler, Jackie (Alan Cassidy) Garcia, Steven, Daniel, Nathan, and John Ruzzin, Kevin Hintz and Brian (Kristynn) Hintz; brother-in- law Eugene (Donna) Wheeler, a nephew and a niece. She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and her sister. 
     Visitation will be held Saturday, October 9, 2021, from 10:00 AM to Noon on the lawn of Harris Funeral Home, Shelby, Michigan.  Graveside services will follow at 12:30 PM at Hart Cemetery.
     In lieu of flowers the family requests those planning expressions of sympathy to consider donations to the Oceana Historical Society, Walkerville Methodist Church, or the Walkerville Area Fire and Rescue.
     Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is handling arrangements.
     www.harrisfhome.com

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