Karen L. McLennan

N. UTICA - Karen L. (Steiger) McLennan passed away, quietly, on November 28, 2025, at the Masonic Care Community, at the age of 81, with her loving family by her side.

She was born in Utica, NY and lived with her adoptive grandparents, Albert and Helen (Deller) Steiger. Karen was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church. As a UFA graduate, in 1962, she would complete studies at the Utica School of Commerce. Karen was previously employed at Commercial Travelers prior to marrying her high school sweetheart, Lloyd McLennan in 1964. She then moved to Peru, Indiana, to be with her husband stationed at Bunker Hill Air Force Base. Together they would raise three beautiful children, Dawn, Shawn and Kimberly after returning home to Utica. Karen went to work as a pharmacy technician, for 33 years, prior to her retirement in 2009.

She enjoyed going to her camp on Kayuta Lake, where she enjoyed boating, kayaking, trail biking, cross country skiing and motorcycling. Her hobbies, when she was not at camp during the winter months, were cross stitching, string art, painting with oils and a favorite, was making jewelry for her friends and family, which included fabric rings. Karen was a member of the Utica Maennerchor where she was a regular competitor in the pitch and shuffleboard leagues. Karen had busy hands in the kitchen and enjoyed family gatherings, especially during the holidays. Karen's time would never be complete without her cats and dog.

Karen is survived by her husband, of 61 years, Lloyd; two daughters, Dawn Straite, of Utica and Kimberly McLennan, of Utica; son, Shawn and his wife, Liesbeth McLennan, of Utica; five grandchildren, Amanda, Shane, Brandon, Shelby and Samantha and her husband, Andrew Clawson; three great-grandchildren, Weston, Olivia and Asher; twin sister, Sharon Jeche; sister, Susie and her husband, Robert Chan; and brother, David and his wife, Christine Charbonneau; several cousins, nieces, nephews and a close cousin, Charles "Skip" (Linda) Steiger.

Karen's family wishes to extend their appreciation for the exceptional care she received by the staff at the Masonic Care Community.

Calling hours for Karen will be held on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at the Heintz Funeral Home, 408 Herkimer Rd., Utica, from 5-7 p.m. Karen's Funeral Service will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025, at 10 a.m. from the funeral home. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers please consider honoring Karen with a donation to your local animal shelter.

Online condolences at www.heintzfuneralservice.net.