Karen Angele

Angele, Karen 11/1/1944 - 3/31/2022 Richland Karen Angele, age 77, passed away on Thursday, March 31, 2022, after her long battle with heart disease. She leaves behind a loving family and many friends who have faithfully supported her throughout her illness. Karen was born in Germany on November 1, 1944, in the tumult of war to Xaver Angele and Marie (Zeil) Angele. She, her sister Erika, and her brother Helmuth immigrated to America in 1951, sponsored by the United Methodist Church of Kalamazoo. Her mother, Marie, and stepfather, Arsen Schwili, established a residence in downtown Kalamazoo on Cedar Street. The family began a very successful transition to American life and eventually became US citizens. Hard-working and devoted to their adoptive country, the Angele/Schwili family prospered and thrived in the Kalamazoo community. Karen went on to graduate from Comstock High School in 1963 and later worked at various companies before deciding to travel to California to live and work. She returned to Kalamazoo in early 1972 and found work at Checker Motors where she spent the next 30 years as an inspector and union steward. She retired from the company in 2003. Karen was an avid reader and critical thinker who loved to share her knowledge and observations of the natural environment. She was a passionate defender of animals. Karen is survived by her lifelong partner of 40 years, Shawn Phillips, a sister, Ola Schwili, nieces Peggy (Randy) Knotts, Pamela Bender, Jessica Speese, and Nephew, Randy Knotts. Also, surviving are her aunt Diann Zeil, brother-in-law William Bender and extended family including a very special friend, Debbie McKay. Cremation has taken place and a celebration of her life memorial is being planned for a later date. Contributions in Karen's honor can be made to your favorite charity or to an animal shelter or rescue group of your choosing.