In Memory

Karen Buys (Dodge)

DODGE, Karen Louise
Formerly of Kalamazoo

Born to Gladys and Edward Buys on November 10, 1943 in Decatur, MI, died at home July 25, 2004. Karen was a 1961 graduate of Loy Norrix in Kalamazoo, and a 1967 graduate of WMU with a degree in English with a fine arts focus. A special joy during these years was her work as Assistant Director of Kalamazoo Jr. Civic Theater. Karen taught high school English/journalism in Kalamazoo schools until marrying William Dodge, June 29, 1969. After Bill's military service, they established their home in the Kalamazoo /Comstock area. Two children, Kathryn Michele and David Corbit, soon filled their lives. When the children were well established in school, Karen returned to teaching. This time her efforts focused on adult education, where her insight and creativity allowed her to develop a respected curriculum highlighting learning techniques. Her expertise in this area led to her being a presenter at an MIT conference on learning techniques. In 1994 Karen and Bill moved to Lansing. Here!
Karen taught at LCC, tutored foreign students associated with MSU who wanted to improve their English. She also tried her hand at writing. She wrote two children's books and one play among other things yet unpublished. In the last 5 years Karen developed a love for Tai Chi, participating in classes and bringing World Tai Chi day to Lansing. After training in Connecticut, she also established a Tai Chi for arthritis program at Sparrow Hospital. Many think of Karen as the consummate hostess. Her insatiable curiosity and enthusiasm for life led her in many directions. With each direction her goal was to live in positive harmony with her world through humor, love, respect and an ever-present smile. Her final gift was to donate her body to MSU's Anatomy Department. Karen is survived by her loving husband, Bill Dodge; children, Katherine Weadley (Mike) of Lyons, CO, Kathryn Dodge of Chicago, and David Dodge (Suzette) of Virginia; four grandchildren, Connor and Quin Weadley, and !
Devin and Kathleen Dodge; a brother, Fred Buys of Odon, IN; and many n
ieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the following: Heartland Hospice at 700 W. Ash, Mason, MI 48854, Meals on Wheels, or the Karen Dodge Education Fund.