Karen Marie Nelson (Shook), born on August 6, 1961, in Sturgis, Michigan, passed away on July 23, 2026, in Battle Creek, Michigan. Her passing marks the close of a life distinguished by dedicated family bonds, commitment to her work, and an enduring love for the small joys that enrich each day.

Karen was the devoted wife of Jerry L. Shook, with whom she was united in marriage in October of 2006 in LaGrange, Indiana. Their partnership was a testament to companionship and shared values. Throughout her lifetime, Karen called both Colon and Sherwood, Michigan, her home, remaining deeply connected to her communities and the people within them.

Her professional career was marked by years of service at Maxitrol in Colon. Karen’s dedication and strong work ethic earned the respect of her colleagues until her well-deserved retirement in 2024. Beyond her career, she was a former member of the Sherwood Garden Club, reflecting her passion for gardening and nurturing living things.

Karen’s interests and enthusiasms spoke to her vibrant character: she loved her birds, gardens, and flowers, and took pleasure in the simple comforts of coffee and chocolate. However, the greatest source of joy in her life was undoubtedly her time spent with her grandchildren. With a heart always open to lending a hand, Karen was known for her willingness to help others—her generosity a lasting aspect of her legacy.

She is survived by her husband, Jerry L. Shook; children Brian (Laura) Gordon of Sherwood and Jamie Gordon of Sturgis; stepdaughters Heather (David) Chapman of Nottawa and Jennifer (Robert) Good of Colon; stepson Jeremey Shook of Colon; as well as her siblings Thomas Nelson of Sherwood, Donald Nelson of Sherwood, and Cathy Nelson of Colon. Karen’s legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Logan, Beckett, Harper, Michael, Madisyn, Caitlynn, Courtney, Chloee, Jazzmyn, Myleigh, Hunter, Gavin, Jilian, and Ian, many great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Karen was preceded in death by her, father Keith Nelson, mother Janice Marie (Truckey) Nelson, brother Keith Nelson, sister Christina Nelson, grandson Brady Gordon, and nephew Nicholas Jones.

Professionally and in her personal life, Karen Marie Nelson (Shook) will be remembered for her warmth, her unwavering support for those she loved, and her ability to find beauty in everyday moments. While her presence will be greatly missed, her memory will endure in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.