Karen Vanzalen

Karen (Ibershoff) VanZalen, age 64, passed away at home following her battle with cancer on Sunday, May 8, 2016. Karen was a Muskegon resident the majority of her life until moving to Hastings in the mid-1990s. She designed and produced the advertising for Plumb's Grocery Stores while in Muskegon and worked at J-Ad Graphics in Hastings. In 2013, she retired and moved to Southfield to be near her daughter and grandchildren. Karen was an accomplished artist and an avid reader. She loved birds and flower gardening. Karen was a pioneer instrumental in developing the original recycle program in Muskegon. She predated current initiatives in recycling and organic gardening long before it became widespread. If you wanted to discuss your political views, Karen was always ready for a debate. SURVIVORS Karen leaves to cherish her memory: her daughter, Lisa (Jamarl) Eiland of Southfield; her brother, Karl (Jan) Ibershoff of Muskegon; her niece, Anne (Matt) West of Ann Arbor; her five treasured grandchildren, Dominic, Jamarl II, Janel, Elijah & Eliana. She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Dolly Ibershoff and her brother, Kurt Ibershoff. SERVICE Monday, May 16, 2016, 12:00 noon with visitation one hour prior to the service at the Clock Chapel - Muskegon with Bradley Young officiating. Memorial contributions in the name of Karen VanZalen can be made to support a sweet, 6 year old boy named Jameson Scheib. He was diagnosed with leukemia 15 months ago. Jameson's mother is a very good friend of Karen's daughter, Lisa. Karen's family can think of no greater way to honor her memory than supporting Jameson in his battle with cancer. Memorials can be submitted through Jameson's GoFundMe page. www.gofundme.com/qvwjh8.