Shirley Maxine Karner

Shirley Maxine Karner ObituaryShirley Maxine Karner, a longtime resident of Lake County, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2025, at her daughter's home, surrounded by love and family. Born on March 11, 1937, in Marion, Ohio, Shirley lived a life full of laughter, strength, music, and deep devotion to those she held dear.
She was the beloved mother of Cindy (Duane) Gardner, Sherry (Rick) Hutchins, and Teffin Karner; treasured grandmother of Dana (Tom) Kaufman, Kevin Hutchins, Dane (Amber) Gardner, Michael Maffit, Jim (Gabbi) Maffit, Dylan (Jordan) Gardner, Aubrey (Kyle) Tankovich, and granddaughter-in-law Jen Gardner; and proud great-grandmother to Duane Thomas Gardner, Owen Kaufman, Wyatt Kaufman, Lizzy Gardner, Lorelai Kaufman, Lincoln Kaufman, Brooklyn Gardner, Bryson Gardner, and Emilia Tankovich.
Shirley was preceded in death by her loving husband, Mike Karner; her parents, Agnes and Charles Konkel; and her beloved grandchildren Dale Hutchins, Amber Hutchins, and Duane "DJ" Gardner.
With her bright smile and even brighter red lipstick kisses, Shirley brought joy to everyone she met. For over 35 years, she worked as a cherished hostess at Corky & Lenny's and Jack's Deli, where her warm welcome and lively spirit became a fixture in the lives of customers and coworkers alike.
She was a proud member of the Sweet Adelines, where she shared her love of singing in harmony, and of the Red Hat Society, where her playful personality and bold style fit right in. Shirley was known for her quick wit, fierce independence, and the stories she could tell-each one full of humor, wisdom, and that unmistakable Shirley spark.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at Magnolia Residence (formerly Ivy House) for the loving care, kindness, and support they gave to Shirley over the past 16 years. Their dedication and compassion brought peace and comfort to both Shirley and her family.
A loving mother, a doting grandmother and great-grandmother, and a friend to many, Shirley had a fire in her spirit and a heart that overflowed with love. Her memory will live on in the laughter she inspired, the songs she sang, and the family she adored.
A graveside service was held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, July 15, at Mentor Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Shirley's memory to Hospice of the Western Reserve, whose compassionate care supported her and her family during her final days.
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Shirley Maxine Karner, a longtime resident of Lake County, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2025, at her daughter's home, surrounded by love and family. Born on March 11, 1937, in Marion, Ohio, Shirley lived a life full of laughter, strength, music, and deep devotion to those she held dear.
She was the beloved mother of Cindy (Duane) Gar