Karen Frances Shaver, age 76, a lifelong resident of East Tawas, Michigan died on Monday, June 12, 2023 at Ascension St. Joseph Hospital in Tawas City, Michigan. She was born the daughter of Albert and Inez (Simmons) Birkenbach on October 18, 1946 in Tawas City, Michigan.
Karen was a graduate of Tawas Area High School. She had a loving heart and an open and welcoming home where she provided motherly nurturing care for many children from the community at her in-home daycare for 30 plus years. In her free time, Karen kept herself busy while enjoying crocheting, quilting, embroidery and reading. A lifelong member of Emanuel Lutheran Church in Tawas City, Karen willingly gave countless hours volunteering at the Lutheran school, reading with the kids, mentoring them and helping with hot lunch on Wednesday’s. Karen’s beautiful smile and heart full of love will forever be cherished by everyone who had the opportunity to know her.
Karen is survived by her children Shiloah A. Alvey – Solgot, Marcie J. Schaaf, Ericka L. Finnell and Jason A. Samuels (fiancé Kristina Webster); seven grandchildren; Christopher (Margot) Alvey, Nicholas (Karisa) Alvey, Dylan Schaaf, Jacob (Sarah) Stack, Jordon ( Caleb) Stack, Simon Finnell, and Timothy Webster; 12 great grandchildren; Jayce, Brady, Nicholas, Lydia, Brionna, Gianna, Jager, Zayli, Hunter, Allison, Lilyanah and Dawson; her sisters, Linda Lechner, and Lola Hubbard. Karen is preceded in death by her mother and step-father, Inez and George Hoig; her father, Albert Birkenbach; brother, Terry Birkenbach; and a grandson, Marcus Finnell. Per her wishes cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be held at a later date at Emanuel Lutheran Church. Karen will be laid to rest in the Tawas City Memory Gardens Cemetery. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Karen’s name are encouraged to consider a donation to the Emanuel Lutheran School for the children. An online guest registry is available to leave a message of support for Karen’s family at www.bureshfuneralhomes.com.
