Karen S. Hertz

Karen Sue Hertz (née Brown), 68, of Sterling Heights, passed away peacefully at home on November 12, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on November 4, 1956, in Warren, MI, Karen graduated from Warren Fitzgerald High School in 1974. In 1973, she met the love of her life, and they married on February 14, 1976. Together with her husband Dennis, Karen worked hard every day to build their family business, Service Towing, Inc. She loved being able to see her husband and boys each day at work and treasured her Friday night dinners with them at the shop. Karen is survived by her devoted husband of 48 years, Dennis; her beloved sons Dennis (Theresa) and Matthew (Deanna); and her cherished grandchildren Ayden, Madisen, Brayden, and Hunter. She is also survived by her sister Deborah (Johnny), brother Thomas, and a host of in-laws, nieces, and nephews. Known affectionately as “mom” and “grandma” to many, Karen found immense joy in these roles, but especially cherished time with her grandchildren. She loved attending their games, school events and cheering them on in their endeavors, regardless of how far she had to travel. It brought her so much joy to spoil her grandkids and loved ones in any way that she could. She is preceded in death by her son Kevin, sister Cynthia, and her parents Leonard and Darleen Brown, brother Dennis Lee and sister Denise Marie. When their son Kevin was diagnosed with pediatric brain cancer, Karen transformed her grief into a lifelong mission of volunteering and fundraising for childhood cancer. Despite immense pain and challenges, she embraced the cancer community, connecting with people from coast to coast, some of whom became her closest friends. She raised awareness and supported cancer fundraising efforts while creating treasured family memories, traveling together, and showing Kevin all the beautiful places across North America. Even after Kevin's passing, Karen's resolve never wavered. She continued her mission in his honor, tirelessly volunteering for numerous charities and organizations, leaving a legacy of compassion and steadfast dedication. Karen lived her life selflessly, always putting others before herself. She treasured her family above all, hosting holidays, celebrating and supporting her loved ones at every opportunity, and ensuring they were always cared for. Everyone around her knew she had a special gift as a "baby whisperer" and graciously snuggled any baby she could, loving to babysit and take care of little ones. She delighted in spending time with friends and traveling with her husband and sons. Together, they enjoyed their cabin on Lake Lancer in northern Michigan, going on boat rides, bingo nights, bowling, a good card game, and attending fundraisers to support families in need. Oftentimes, she was known for re-donating her auction and raffle winnings to the causes she supported and did this out of deep love in her heart, never seeking recognition for her generosity. For many years, she led a team in the Relay for Life to honor her son Kevin and took a sincere interest in supporting Benefit4Kids, a non-profit organization that supported her family during Kevin's illness. Karen also found great joy in her involvement with the FOP Christopher Wouter’s Lodge 124 Women’s Auxiliary Group. Her warmth, generosity, strength, and unbiased support for others will be deeply missed. Though the world feels a little darker with Karen's passing, her family finds solace in knowing she is reunited with her son Kevin, making Heaven a little brighter with her presence. Karen's legacy of love, dedication, and family will be remembered and cherished by all who knew her. In lieu of flowers, donations in Karen’s memory can be made to Benefit4Kids, a pediatric non-profit close to her heart, at https://www.b4k.org/ . Founded in 1998, Benefit4Kids grants outdoor wishes to children with life-threatening and life-limited disabilities nationwide.

Karen S. Hertz

November 4, 1956 - November 12, 2024