Date of Death: September 4, 2026
Service Details
In accordance with her wishes, a private celebration of life dinner will be held at a later date.
Obituary Notice
Karen Wordelman Dubbeld, a beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born on November 8, 1950, in the charming town of Three Rivers, Michigan, Karen was the cherished daughter of Norman and Margene Wordelman.
Karen’s life was a tapestry of love and dedication, woven with memories that will long be treasured by all who knew her. She grew up in a family steeped in values of hard work and compassion, which she carried with her throughout her life. She graduated from Three Rivers High School, where she began her career as an aide at Three Rivers Hospital through the Co-op program. Karen’s deep-rooted connection to her family was evident when she joined her parents on the Wordelman Guernsey Dairy Farm, working tirelessly and sharing her passion for agriculture by showing cows in 4-H.
Her journey led her to a fulfilling career at Meijer, where she worked with dedication until her retirement at the age of 60. Karen was a devoted member of The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, where she found community and spiritual fulfillment.
On June 22, 1989, Karen married the love of her life, Brian Dubbeld. Together, they shared 37 wonderful years, filled with laughter, love, and countless cherished memories. Karen was the proud mother of Walter Dubbeld (Emily Gersch), and Ashley Dubbeld, her two beloved children who were the light of her life.
Karen is survived by her husband, sons, daughter, two sisters, many nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Norma VanZile, whose memories she held dear.
Family was at the heart of Karen’s life. She adored her nieces and nephews, creating joyful moments with them, whether by singing the witch doctor song on tractor rides, baking her famous sugar cookies, or playing jokes on them and scaring them with the “grumpies and the riders.” Her generosity of spirit was further demonstrated when she became the full-time caregiver for her mother in 2010, a testament to her unwavering love and devotion.
Karen found immense joy in simple pleasures—mowing her lawn, embracing the great outdoors, and spending quality time with her family. Her life was a beacon of resilience, kindness, and joy, leaving an indelible mark on all who were blessed to know her.
In her final weeks, Karen received compassionate care from the dedicated staff at Bronson Methodist Hospital and Rose Arbor Hospice Facility. Her family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to them for their kindness and support.
Karen’s legacy of love, strength, and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who were fortunate to know her.
Additional Information
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When we were kids my mom studied with her mom. I always loved our visits. Karen was the quiet one can’t wait to see her, and our parents again in a perfect world❤️. It’s just around the corner❤️
Our condolences go out to Karen’s immediate family. Karen was a thoughtful person that we enjoyed seeing at the Wordelman farm. We have fond memories when the Wordelman families got together and the cousins played. Karen was a special person.
Cousins Steve, Judi, Vicki, and Judy Wordelman
Mom always enjoyed reminiscing about the good memories on the farm and the many family get togethers you had. Mom was very attentive towards her family. She always thought of you fondly. Thank you for your kind words and support.
We worked with Karen along with Brian and Walter at Meijer; we hope the memories of your loving wife and mother sustain you until you meet again. Prayers for you all as you go through this time of mourning, much love.
Karen was an absolute joy to be around. I really got to know her while visiting her mother who she cared for and who I had the pleasure of helping her once or twice with. She loved her family both the spiritual and physical family. She had a beautiful smile, and I will truly miss her. I look forward to seeing her in the new system. Rest well Karen.
She was a lovely lady we will miss her beautiful smile. I’m glad I got to spend time with her before she died.
She loved you and Chris so much. Thank you for always being there for our family