Karen R. Bolley

Mrs. Karen Ruth Bolley, age 79, our loving, humorous, dedicated, and caring mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on Saturday, January 6, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

Karen was born in Alpena, MI on September 4, 1944, the daughter of Frederick & Nellie (Mendham) Trost. She was raised alongside her siblings Bob, Mary, and Jane, and graduated from Alpena High School with the class of 1962. While out with friends one night, Karen met Ken Bolley. They dated, fell in love, and were united in marriage in 1964. Together they raised their three children, shared countless memories, and celebrated 31 years of marriage before Ken’s passing in 1995.

Before retirement, Karen worked as a secretary in public schools and as a computer teacher with General Motors. Karen had a passion for music, she played the handbells and had a gifted singing voice and would sing in her church choirs. She liked to visit her daughter Linda, in Atlanta, GA, where she was affectionately known as “Mama Bolley” and share her passion for singing. Further, Karen was a talented seamstress and made many dresses, outfits, and blankets for family and friends. She loved to dance and was accomplished in tap and highland dancing. She was a woman of faith in the Lutheran church and spent several years teaching Sunday school. Also, Karen was a devout Detroit Tigers fan and enjoyed time spent at the old Tiger Stadium and the new Comerica Park. She also had love for animals, especially her cat, Zoey, and her “granddogs and grandcats”. Above all, Karen was an adoring and devoted grandmother to her grandchildren, Cameron and Mackenzie.

Karen is forever loved by her children: Rick Bolley, Linda Bolley, and Kristie (Shaun) Chesney; beloved grandchildren, Cameron Bolley and Mackenzie Chesney; sister, Jane Reinholz; several nieces, nephews, extended family, friends; and her cat, Zoey.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ken; parents, Frederick & Nellie; sister, Mary Howay; and brother, Bob Bradley.

Karen’s family will welcome guests to Hanlin Funeral Home – Millington (4823 Main St, Millington, MI 48746) on Thursday, January 11, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. A celebration of Karen’s life will begin at 1 p.m.

Those wishing to make donations, should do so in care of Karen’s grandchildren, Cameron Bolley and Mackenzie Chesney.

Kindly share a memory with Karen's family in the guestbook below.

Karen and her family are in the care of Hanlin Funeral Home - Millington. 4823 Main St, Millington,  MI 48746. Phone (989) 871-4591.

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Millington & Vassar