Karen Diane Wallag, a remarkable woman known for her strength, creativity, and compassion, passed away, surrounded by her loved ones, on February 10, 2024, in Arcadia, FL. She was 74.  Karen leaves behind a legacy of love, beauty, and resilience that touched the lives of everyone who knew her.

Born October 19, 1949, Karen had a successful career as a product designer for Ford Motor Company, where her creativity shone through her work. She was also a gifted artist, known for her technical illustrations and skill in creating beautiful ceramic pottery. Gardening was another of Karen's passions, and she was an expert in plants and flowers, always taking time to appreciate nature's beauty.

Karen was adventurous, enjoying activities such as sailing, skiing, scuba diving, and fishing and her love for the outdoors was shared with her husband.  Together, they made countless memories.  Karen's adventurous nature was perhaps best embodied in her love for sailing. In the early 1980s, she and her husband owned a catamaran that could reach speeds over 20 miles per hour. Karen, always fearless, would balance on a trapeze wire, leaning over the hull to keep the boat steady, even as it soared through the water. Despite occasional wipeouts—sometimes flipping the boat over due to sudden gusts of wind—Karen would emerge, bruises and all, ready to sail again the next weekend. Their sailing adventures evolved over the years, and they spent many joyful summers cruising Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Georgian Bay, and the North Channel on their sailboat, often spending month-long vacations living on board and exploring the serene beauty of the Great Lakes.

Karen was more than just a brilliant artist and adventurer—she was the heart of her family. When her mother needed care, Karen stepped into the role of family matriarch, providing unwavering support and love. Her mother fondly called her "The Boss," a testament to Karen's strength and grace.

Karen's kindness, intelligence, and sense of humor enriched the lives of those around her. She was a beloved wife, a devoted friend, and a woman of great character who made the world a better place simply by being in it.

Karen is survived by her husband, Ted, sister, Connie Campbell, brother, Bill (Kelly) Early, and niece, Adrienne Radacovik.

In addition to her family, she is survived by a community of friends and family who will forever cherish her memory. Karen will be dearly missed, but her spirit lives on in the hearts of all who loved her.

Karen's Memorial Mass will be celebrated Friday morning, September 20, 2024, at 10 am (gathering at 9:30 am) at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, 23615 Power Rd., Farmington, followed by a procession to Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Southfield.  A reception will follow at Nikola's, 25225 Telegraph Rd., Southfield.

A further Celebration of Karen's life is planned for Friday, September 27, at 6:00 pm, at the Port Huron Yacht Club, 212 Quay St., Port Huron, MI.