Karen K. Burke

Karen K. Burke, 72 of Marion, passed away Sunday, May 21, 2017. Karen was born February 19, 1945 in Marion, IN to the late Ray and Dorothy Horner. She was a graduate of Indiana University receiving both her Bachelor’s degree and Master’s in Education. Karen also received a Master’s in Special Education from the University of St. Francis.

Karen’s first teaching job was in Georgia while Jim was in OCS. When she returned to Marion, she taught with the Marion Community Schools for 4 years. Karen then moved to the Mississinewa Community Schools where she taught for 31 years. She retired in January 2017.

Karen was an avid bridge player. She volunteered at several events associated with Autism Awareness, Grant County Special Ed and Grant County Special Olympics. Karen’s summers were not void of her students; she planned weekly outings and other special events to keep her students involved during the summer months.

Family and friends are invited to gather at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church 100 W. 86th Street Indianapolis, IN 46260 on Thursday, May 25 from 4:00 pm until the service time at 6:00 pm.

The most important thing in Karen’s life was her family. “Mimi” especially enjoyed attending all her grandchildren’s athletic events. Many miles were put on Karen and Jim’s car for their grandchildren.

Karen is survived by her husband of 49 years, Jim; children, Jimmy (girlfriend, Jackie Daughtry) Burke and Kellee (husband, Kasey) Clevenger; grandchildren, Lauren and Katelyn Burke, Emily and Ryan Clevenger; sister, Jackie (husband, Jon) Holder; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Memorial contributions may be made to Autism Society of Indiana 1800 N. Meridian St. Suite 600 Indianapolis, IN 46202. Please visit flannerbuchanan.com to sign the online guest register.