Karen Jean Olsen

Karen Jean Olsen Battle Creek Karen Jean Olsen, age 59, of Battle Creek, MI, died on Thursday, October 29, 2009, at her residence, surrounded by her loving family, after a courageous battle against cancer. Karen was born on November 27, 1949 in Ishpeming, MI and was the daughter of Ronald K. and Grace M. (Ludy) Myers. She was a 1968 graduate of Battle Creek Lakeview High School. Karen was with Speed's Restaurant for over 35 years, starting as a waitress and retiring as the cook. She was also involved with In-Home Health Care through Lakeshore. Karen was a member of Sonoma United Methodist Church and was very fond of all animals, especially her dogs, cats and birds. She enjoyed old movies; watching the Christian Channel and reading the Bible and murder mysteries. On June 11, 1990, in Alamo, TN, Karen was united in marriage to Jack P. Olsen and he survives. Also surviving are her daughter, Tonie Rae (Jamie) Erskine of Springfield, MI; her son, Lloyd Duane "DJ" (Elizabeth Ann "Libby") Bartsch, Jr. of Battle Creek; two step-sons, Michael S. (Kim) Olsen of Midway Park, NC and Jacob J. Olsen of Grand Rapids, MI; five grandchildren, Caitlin Quinn, Trenton Bartsch, Hunter Olsen, Kaleb Olsen and Kyle Olsen; her three sisters, Dianne (Ron) Webber and Sandy (Roger) Thomas both of Battle Creek and Debra (Doug) King of Oakland, IL; her brother, Ronald Myers of Battle Creek; and her best friend since high school, Nancy (Catherine) Lubking of Battle Creek. She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Shelia M. Myers and her brother, David E. Myers. At the request of her family, friends may call on Sunday, November 1st from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home, Battle Creek. The graveside service to celebrate Karen's life will be held on Monday, November 2nd at 2:00 pm at the Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens Chapel, Emmett Township, with burial to follow. The Rev. Nancy G. Powers, Pastor of the Sonoma United Methodist Church, will officiate. Memorial contributions in Karen's honor may be made to the American Cancer Society, Southwest Michigan Area Service Center, 5110 S. Sprinkle Road, Portage, MI, 49002. Personal messages for the family may be sent to www.farleyestesdowdle.com