Karen J. Marsh

Karen J. Marsh, born on July 6, 1957, left this world on November 21, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service. A cherished educator, Karen devoted an impressive 32 years to the Perry Local schools before her well-deserved retirement. Her commitment to nurturing young minds was matched only by her passion for lifelong learning, as demonstrated through her own educational journey. Karen graduated from Washington High School, earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Akron, and later completed her master's degree at Ashland University.

Beyond her professional achievements, Karen was known for her warmth and kindness. She loved her family and friends deeply, creating a nurturing environment wherever she went. Karen was an active member of the St. Stephen Martyr Church in Canton, where she found community and strength. She continued to tutor for 12 years after retirement. Karen loved the beach, the Buckeyes, golf, yoga, watching her grandchildren play sports, making candies and cookies at the holidays, household projects, taking her dogs and granddogs for walks, and playing games

Karen is survived by her loving husband, Doug Marsh; son, Geoff (Nancy) Marsh; daughter, Lindsay Yezbak; brother, Rick (Lori) Sanford; and grandchildren, Karson Roggenburk, Landon Yezbak, Hudson Yezbak, and Sloane Yezbak.

Karen was preceded in death by her father, Larry Sanford; mother, Barbara Sanford; sister, Vicki (Eric) Miller; and brother, Scott Sanford.

Karen’s spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Visitation will be held on December 4, 2025, at Paquelet & Arnold-Lynch Funeral Home in Massillon, Ohio, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM with Pastor Andrew Potsko officiating services at St. Stephen Martyr Church. on December 5, 2025, at 11:00am - 12:00pm.

The family would like to invite everyone to a luncheon following the services.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Karen's memory to one of the two following charities selected by the family:

- Golden Retrievers In Need or GRIN a Golden Retriever Rescue: address for checks is PO Box 24365 Cleveland, OH 44124.

- Perry Local Schools CARE Team which supports families in Perry Township: Checks can be made to Perry Local Schools, Attn: CARETeam