Karen Schafer Deese

Karen Schafer Deese, 76, passed away on November 25, 2024. She was born to Leon and Burlene Schafer on November 21, 1948, in Lansing, MI. She is preceded by her husband of 49 years, Everett Deese, son: Jason Deese, parents: Leon and Burlene Schafer, sister: Diane Schafer, and brother: David Schafer. 

Karen is survived by her brothers: James (Janet) Schafer and Ken (Ann) Schafer, sister-in-law Carol Schafer, sister-in-law: Ann Palmer (Alan), brother-in-law: John Deese (Lisa), Jimmy Deese (Nancy), Bobby Deese (Dana), and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Karen was an elementary school teacher for 50 plus years, in the Polk County School District. She graduated from USF with a Masters and Bachlors degree. Karen loved collecting bears and seasonal critters. She was a member of Saint Joseph Parish in Winter Haven. Karen also enjoyed traveling and the theater. Her favorite saying was “It is what it is.”

There will be a visitation on December 4th from 5-7pm at Oak Ridge Funeral Care, Winter Haven and Mass will be held at Saint Joseph Catholic Church, Winter Haven on December 5 at 10am.