Karen Mileham Obituary
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A visitation for Karen will be held on Tuesday, June 3, 2025 from 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M at Filbrandt Chapel, 1076 S. Bailey Ave, South Haven, Michigan. A Funeral service will take place the following day, Wednesday, June 4, 2025 at 12:00 P.M. at the same location. Karen's nephew, Pastor Dan Pratt from 5 Lakes Church, Sylvania, Ohio, will be officiating.
Karen was born on August 23, 1957, in South Haven, Michigan. She graduated from Eau Claire High School in 1975 and married Arthur Dale Mileham on July 3, 1981. Her first job was at Jo's Restaurant in South Haven. After marrying Dale, Karen ran the family business, Willowside Party Store, and retired from the United States Post Office in South Haven in 2011. For the past 10 years, Karen spent her winters at her home in Lake Placid, Florida. Karen most enjoyed spending quality time with her family and many friends, she will be remembered for her unconditional love, wonderful cooking and positive attitude which she shared with so many.
Karen was preceded in death by her husband Dale Mileham and her mother Jeanette Strasser, as well as her special aunt Joanne Derhammer.
Karen is survived by her children Melissa (Rafael) Rios, Dale (Stephanie) Mileham, Tammy (Greg) Smith, Ron (Vanessa) Mileham, and Dawn (Allan) Ridley, as well as 12 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. Karen is also survived by her father, Everette Pifer, and siblings Karl Pifer, Richard Pifer, Carolyn Smak, Kelli Ford, Tammy Cochran, Brenda Strasser, Sandra Karr, Phyllis Welsh, Rex Strasser, Rick Strasser, and Mike Strasser. Also surviving are many loving nieces and nephews.
Donations can be made in her name to the Glenn United Methodist Church or Hospice of Holland. Those wishing to share a memory of Karen online may do so at www.starsfamilyfh.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Filbrandt Chapel-Starks Family Funeral Homes and Cremation Services. 269-637-0333.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
Stan & Sue Koster
June 3, 2025
So many wonderful memories with Karen: weekly coffee chats, going with us to our granddaughter's softball game (and buying FL sweatshirts because it was so cold!), Melissa & Karen stopping by for a visit in Iowa, many Florida meals together, Tomoka outings, and our fun visit to Michigan two years ago. I've read many comments that Karen was the kindest, most giving person ever, even while physically suffering - We agree, and we loved her like a sister. RIP, Karen.
Mike and Ardith Matthysse
May 31, 2025
Our sincere sympathy to Karen´s family. She was a special friend to us and
we feel the loss of a dear friend and know how much her passing effects all of you. May God grant each of you His peace and comfort.
Beverly Seibert
May 30, 2025
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you Always a smile and caring words for all who happen to be a part of her life.
Gail
May 30, 2025
Karen was our neighbor on Chestnut Trail in Lake Placid, Florida. She was always a bright light and did so many thoughtful things for all of us. We will always remember Karen as optimistic, never complaining, and a loving soul. God bless you always. We will all miss you.
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