Karen S. Dendorfer

Karen S. Dendorfer (nee Spillner), age 81, of Parma, Ohio, passed away on Monday, March 1, 2021. Karen was born in Akron, Ohio on March 29, 1939 to the late Howard and Mary (Orr) Spillner. She leaves behind her beloved husband, John, after 62 years of marriage; her children: Kevin (Beth) Dendorfer, Brian (Amy) Dendorfer, Donna (Jim) Kontra, and Susan Dendorfer; grandchildren: Mandy Duman, Daniel (Chelsea) Dendorfer, Courtney (Roman) Klingshirn, Karli (Craig) Lane, Aubree (Jacob) Dendorfer, Noah Dendorfer, Mary Kontra, Genevieve Kontra, and Macey Dendorfer; five great grandchildren with two on the way; and sister, Nancy Fraunfelder. She was preceded in death by her sister, Kay Stanley. Karen was a graduate of Parma Senior High School. She was a member of the St. Paul United Church of Christ and a member of the Ohio Eastern Star Ellbrook Chapter for over 50 years. Children and education were her pride and joy. She dedicated her life's work to improving education by being an avid member of the Parma City School Board for over 32 years and the Ohio School Boards Association for over 25 years. During this time, she received many honors and awards for her hard work, dedication and years of service. The Parma City School Board thoughtfully chose to honor Karen by naming their board room "The Karen Dendorfer Board Room." She also received the 2021 President's Award. In her spare time, Karen could be found sewing and knitting. She was known for afghans and the hats and mittens she would frequently donate to her church. Above all, Karen loved her family very much and always wore a smile when around them. She loved watching her grandchildren and great grandchildren succeed and was proud of their many accomplishments. Karen will be greatly missed by her family and those who knew her. Family and friends may call on Tuesday, March 9, 2021 from 2:00-4:00 PM and 6:00-8:00 PM at the Busch Funeral Home, 7501 Ridge Road, Parma, Ohio 44129. A private service will be held Wednesday, March 10, 2021 with a public webcasting at 11:00 AM. To view the service, please click the link below: http://my.gather.app/remember/karen-dendorfer Interment will follow at the Brooklyn Heights Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be forwarded to the Karen and John Dendorfer Family Scholarship Fund.