Karen S. Haensch

Karen S. Haensch, 84, formerly of Elmore, OH died Sunday, June 9, 2024 at Otterbein- Portage Valley, Pemberville, OH under Hospice Care. She was born December 25, 1939 in Beaver Dam, WI to the late Roland C. & Audrey M. (Hoffman) Jacobs. She married Richard W. Haensch of Rochester, NY on October 1, 1988.

Karen graduated from Harris-Elmore High School in June, 1957 and from Valparaiso University in June, 1961. She also attended The University of Chicago, Bowling Green State University, and Toledo University.

In 1977, she began her career as an English teacher, ending as a member of the faculty of Woodmore High School for twenty-three years. During these years, Karen was instrumental in developing many courses of study, including American Literature, Composition, and Advanced Placement English. Her passions were her biological and student families. After escorting groups of students and adults to London and other cities in England, she traveled to Greece, Austria, Germany, Korea, and Scotland. She also was an avid supporter of sports and marching band. Her favorites were “March Madness”, all OSU sports, and, especially, The Ohio State Marching Band and its conductor, Johathan Waters.

Karen is survived by her daughter Lisa S. McKay of Ellicott City, MD and son Todd E. (Myong) McKay of Douglasville, GA; sister Nadine Jacobs Klima of Joliet, IL; and brother Robert Jacobs of Clinton Twp., MI. Also surviving are grandchildren: Sarah (Hines) Smit, Margaret “Maggie” Hines, Andrew McKay and Thomas McKay; devoted friends Peggy McMellen and Debbie Barrett.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; parents, Roland & Audrey Jacobs, son Mark McKay, sister Wendy Jacobs Ramos, aunt Kathryn (Jacobs) Powell, and brother-in-law George Klima.

Visitation will be Saturday, September 7, 2024 from 1-3pm at Crosser & Priesman Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Elmore-Genoa Chapel. Following visitation there will be a Service of Remembrance at the Funeral Home, with Interment to be held privately in Harris-Elmore Union Cemetery, Elmore. Those wishing to contribute a memorial may consider Luther Home of Mercy, Williston, OH, Make-a-Wish, or a charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.crosserpriesmanfuneralhome.com.