Karen Mary Gensicke's Obituary
Karen Gensicke, 71, passed this life on October 13, 2024, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She was born on April 13, 1953, in Bad Axe, Michigan. Karen cherished the natural beauty of her home state of Michigan, especially her hometown of Port Austin, which is “on the tip of the thumb.” Karen always held a deep love for its landscapes and charm.
A lifelong fan of the Detroit Tigers major league baseball team, watching them play was a requirement in her household. Karen also had a fondness for daisies, the color blue, and the music of John Denver, which brought her comfort and joy. One of her simple pleasures was driving her beloved 1999 Toyota RAV, affectionately named “Mabel Joy.”
Karen dedicated her life to the education of young children, earning her bachelor’s degree from Northeastern State University in early childhood education before completing her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Oklahoma State University. She spent her teaching career at Patrick Henry Elementary, Jonas Salk Elementary, and McClure Elementary, mostly teaching First Grade because “that was when children really learn to read.” Her passion for teaching and her caring heart touched countless lives, both in and out of the classroom. Always giving and generous, Karen was committed to supporting causes close to her heart, including the Sandy Hook Foundation.
She was known for her warmth and her ability to connect with anyone she met, whether in a grocery store aisle or during a heartfelt conversation in the classroom. Her friendly nature meant that she never met a stranger she couldn’t talk to.
Karen’s love for life extended to the animals that shared it with her, especially her beloved cat Lucy, who was one of her closest companions. Throughout her life, she cared for many pets, forming special bonds with each one. Above all, Karen cherished her family, especially her grandson John, whom she affectionately called “Snickerdoodle.”
Karen’s memory will live on in the hearts of all those who were fortunate to know her, her warmth, and her generous spirit. She will be deeply missed.
Karen is preceded in death by her granddaughter Kayla Kronk; previous spouse Kenneth Loney; and brother John Jezek.
She is survived by her husband of 35 years, Dale Gensicke; children Jennifer Kronk and her husband Dale, and Sam Loney and his husband Will; stepchildren Mary Coallier and her husband Rob, and Marshall Gensicke and his wife Kristine; grandchildren John, Gwen, Kylee, and Amber; nephews Johnathan Jezek and Jake Jezek; along with other family members and friends who will forever cherish their memories.
A celebration of life will be held in Karen's honor on Friday, October 25th, 2024 at 2pm at Floral Haven Funeral Homes Rose Chapel. Anyone wishing to send flowers may do so by calling Floral Designs by Floral Haven at (918) 459-1525. Any independent florists may deliver flowers directly to Floral Haven Funeral Home by 12:00 PM on Friday, October 25th, 2024, in order for them to be set out and properly displayed for Karen's celebration of life in a timely manner.
The funeral home will be live streaming the service for anyone that is unable to attend. Please utilize the link below to join the celebration of life for Karen virtually. If you have any issues with the link please contact Floral Haven Funeral Home at 918-252-2518
https://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/viewer/105818
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