Karen Knapp

Knapp, Karen Lynn (Van Stelle) Mattawan Went to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday afternoon, December 22, 2016 after a long illness. Karen was born July 27, 1947 in Kalamazoo, MI to the late Leonard and Ollie Van Stelle .Karen is survived by her husband Ray, of 44 years; son, Kris (Sheilla), daughter, Kari (Shawn). Karen also has 4 grandchildren, Kaden, Zach, Emma and Makayla. Karen is also survived by her sister, Linda Leep (Richard) and brother, John Van Stelle (Paula); several nieces, nephews, numerous cousins, and many close friends. Karen graduated from Paw Paw High School and Western Michigan University and attended Oxford University in England. Karen married Ray in 1972 and joined him overseas on his military assignments. Karen enjoyed visiting the countryside and loved touring all the old castles, while overseas. Karen began her teaching career while in Germany, teaching at the American school and then continued to teach 2nd grade in Lawrence and Mattawan, MI for a total of over 40 years before retiring in 2006. Karen loved all her students and tried to pass on her great love and excitement for knowledge to each of them. Karen was on a number of school committees, was a volunteer for Toys for Tots, participated actively in her church and was a proud member of her beloved bell choir. Karen was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. Karen could light up a room with her funny stories and will be greatly missed. A memorial gathering will be held from 2-4pm Wednesday, December 28 at the Mattawan Early Elementary School, 56720 Murray St in Mattawan. Interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Mattawan Public Educational Foundation, 56720 Murray St., Mattawan 49071. To view Karen's personalized guestbook please visit www.langelands.com.