Karen Louise Duckworth

Karen L. Duckworth, of Scotts passed away on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at the age of 76. Throughout her life, Karen embodied the ideals of trailblazing and dedication, leaving a profound impact on her community and all who knew her.

A proud graduate of University High School, Karen pursued her passion for serving others at Western Michigan University, where she earned a Bachelor's and two Master's degrees. She obtained her Masters Degree in Public Administration and Social Work. She began her career as a fourth-grade teacher, sharing her love of learning with countless young students. Her commitment to service led her to direct the teen program through the Voluntary Action Center, where her vision for community engagement began to take shape.

Among her many accomplishments, Karen was instrumental in the creation of the Disability Resource Center, which has since evolved into the Disability Network. As President & CEO in this role, she was a key contributor to the writing of the American Disability Act (ADA), an achievement that has had lasting effects on the lives of many individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, in the 1970s and 1980s, she initiated the “Barrier Bash” to promote awareness for people with disabilities, demonstrating her role as a pioneer in advocacy.

Her compassionate nature extended beyond advocacy; she also served as the Executive Director for Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD) and worked as a medical social worker for several hospice agencies, providing support and comfort to families during difficult times.

Karen's warmth and spirit were reflected in her hobbies and interests. Her passion for animals blossomed while caring for the family pets, most recently her cocker spaniel, Mikey. She was known for her cardinal collection, while her love of nature flourished, as she tended to her flower garden and indoor plants. She enjoyed cheering for the New York Yankees, and often reminisced about summers spent in Traverse City, MI, and fishing at the family cottage on Gun Lake.

An active member of Bethel Reformed Church in her youth and then a founding member of Country Christian Evangelical Free Church as an adult, she fostered a strong sense of community and fellowship within her church family.

The heart of Karen’s life was her family, particularly her beloved husband, Al Duckworth. They celebrated their marriage on August 23, 1976, in Kalamazoo, MI, and built a partnership founded on love, support, and shared dreams. Her family remembers her as the embodiment of gift-giving, always finding joy in making others feel special.

Karen Louise Duckworth leaves behind Al’s children Robin (Tim) Kueppers and Keith (Shari) Duckworth and her grandchildren Sarah Kueppers, Stephen Kueppers, Jordan Duckworth and Jacob Duckworth, as well as other cousins, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Al Duckworth, father Frank Decker, mother Louise (Squires) Decker and brother James Decker.

She also leaves behind cherished memories and a legacy marked by compassion, advocacy, and love. Her presence will be profoundly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her, and her contributions to both her profession and community will forever be remembered.

A Celebration of Karen’s Life will be held on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at Country Christian Evangelical Free Church, 9286 South 36th Street, Scotts, at 12 noon. The family will greet friends prior to the service from 10-12 noon. Followed by burial at Riverside Cemetery in Kalamazoo.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Karen's guestbook and/or share your favorite memory with her family. Those who wish may make contributions to Country Christian Evangelical Free Church.

The Duckworth family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage, MI 49002 (269) 344-5600.