Karen Yvonne Geary

Karen Yvonne Geary, 80, of Harbor Springs, Michigan, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2026, surrounded by family.

Karen was born on December 13, 1945, in Muskegon, Michigan, to Arthur and Virginia Smith. Her family later moved to Northern Michigan, where she attended Petoskey High School. After marrying Michael Geary of Harbor Springs, the couple settled on their family farm, where they raised four children and built a life centered on family, hard work, and integrity.

Karen's greatest joy in life was her family. She devoted herself wholeheartedly to her children and grandchildren, sharing with them an endless supply of love, encouragement, and energy. Her family was the center of her world, and she took great pride in every accomplishment they achieved.

Throughout her life, Karen held a variety of jobs, including owning Geary's Larks Lake Bar (now Moose Jaw Junction), waitressing, cleaning, and working at the local hospital. However, the work that meant the most to her was caring for others through personal nursing. She found purpose and fulfillment in helping those in need and offering comfort to others during difficult times.

Karen will be remembered for her compassion, selflessness, strength, and determination. She possessed a remarkable ability to find joy in life's simple pleasures and often reminded others, "It doesn't take much to smile."

She never met a stranger and welcomed everyone with kindness and warmth. Karen especially loved spending time with both the young and the elderly, finding connection and friendship wherever she went. She cherished life on the family farm, where she enjoyed horseback riding, gardening, cooking, baking, and caring for those she loved.

Music also held a special place in Karen's heart. One of her proudest personal accomplishments was recording her own CD, allowing her to share her love of singing with family and friends.

Karen is lovingly survived by her children: Josh Geary; Michael Geary (Trina); Craig Geary (Sherrie); and Heidi Kresnak (Kevin). She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Brandon and Brody Kresnak, Kelsey and Logan Geary, Michael and Grace Geary, Emmett Geary, and Callum Geary and Sisters Shelia Major (Al) Sue Meser as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Michael Geary; her parents, Arthur and Virginia Smith; her sisters, Diane Kruzel and Ginger Veen; and her brothers, Bob Smith and Randy Smith.

Karen's legacy of kindness, generosity, and unconditional love will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A special thanks to Blissful Cottage staff members for their fun, loving care provided, and also Bay Bluffs, staff, and personal home caregivers: Linda Eaton and Sharon Ruley.

Any donations in Karen's honor can be sent to Little Traverse Humane Society of Harbor Springs. 

A service to celebrate Karen's life will be held at Stutsmanville Chapel on July 10th, at 11:00 AM, with visitation starting at 10:00 AM.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.