Karen Lyn Franz

Karen L. (Burke) Franz age 75 passed away on September 14, 2024 at the Kobacker House in Columbus. 

Karen is preceded in death by the love of her life Robert L. Franz, parents Paul A. and Dorothy L. (McLaughlin) Burke. Brother Thomas N. Burke and twin sister Sharon A. Satterfield. Cousins Patricia Wasmus-Pagnanelli, Katy Wells, David McLaughlin and Katherine Harper.

She is survived by her daughter and favorite son-in-law Andrea L. and Scott A. Harkless. Granddaughter Courtney L. Harkless, whom she was very proud of and bragged about whenever she got a chance. Sisters-in-Law JoAnne Burke and Carole Franz. Nephews Kevin (Kathleen) Burke, Brian (Denise) Burke, Dennis (Tami) Satterfield and Kyle Satterfield. Cousins Maryann Kane and Thomas (Sherry) Wells and Jane Carpenter. Many great nieces and nephews and extended friends whom she considered family. 

Karen is a 1966 graduate of Pleasant View High school and was involved in planning many class reunions. She is retired from the Ohio State Highway Patrol and Columbia Heights United Methodist Church. She was a very proud member of the Daughters of Erin where she held almost every office during her years with the organization. She served as President 2004-2006 and was the very first Member of the Year in 2001. She was also named Irish Women of the year in 2016. Out of all of the titles and jobs that she held over the years being a Mom and Maw Maw were her favorites. She enjoyed playing darts, card club, dinner and lunch outings with friends and going to the casino. She became a world traveler in her later years. Traveling to Ireland, Italy and Mexico. She also loved going to Myrtle Beach and Las Vegas. 

Special thank you to Stephanie Dowell and family, Karen Fahy, the Daughters of Erin and The Shamrock Club of Columbus. 

“American by birth, Irish by the grace of God!”

Donations can be made in memory of Karen to the Daughters of Erin to help support their many charities. PO Box 1912, Columbus, Ohio 43216-1912

Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 5th from 1 to 4 pm and a Celebration of Life at 4pm. Newcomer Funeral Home Southwest Chapel. 3393 Broadway, Grove City, Ohio. Pastor Ed Wilson officiating.