Karen "Kopec" Mikols

Karen Mikols, beloved wife, mother, artist, and friend, passed away on September 18, 2025, at the age of 71.

Karen was preceded in death by her loving parents, Ben and Dolores Kopec, and her brother, Michael A. Paolella.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 49 years, Tim Mikols, her two daughters, April Mikols (Mike Slivers) and Katy Franz (Eric), and nephew Michael Paolella, who provided invaluable support throughout her final illness.

Born on October 5, 1953, Karen grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, where she attended South High School. After graduation, she began her career at North American before becoming a legal secretary-a profession she maintained until her retirement in December 2023.

Karen was a woman of many passions. A lifelong Cleveland Indians fan, she rarely missed a game and proudly wore her team colors. She was also a gifted painter, with a special talent for ceramics. Her favorite subjects were wildlife and Halloween themed pieces. Her home and those of many others were graced with her realistic, detailed creations. Fall and Halloween were among her favorite times of year, and she celebrated them with unmatched enthusiasm.

A true animal lover, Karen spent many joyful hours at the zoo and volunteering at the Cuyahoga County Animal Shelter. She cherished afternoon tea dates with her daughters and close friends, and she was always up for a mystery or crime show marathon. Karen's couch and kitchen table were always open, where her sympathetic ear and unfiltered advice helped many through difficult times over the years.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Karen's memory to one of the following organizations that reflect her love for animals:

• Friends of the Cuyahoga County Animal Shelter via the Dick Goddard Best Friends Medical Relief Fund: Donate here (https://wl.donorperfect.net/weblink/WebLink.aspx?name=E348754&id=77)

• Friends of the Cuyahoga County Animal Shelter: https://fccas.org/what-we-do/

• Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary, Inc.: Donate here (https://happytrailsfarm.app.neoncrm.com/forms/donate)

Karen will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her indomitable spirit and the love she gave so freely to any who needed it.