Karen Lynn Boerma

Karen Lynn Boerma

December 2, 1946-July 26, 2026

Peacefully passed away surrounded by her loving family on July 26, 2026, at the age of 79.

Karen was born on December 2, 1946, in Waukegan, Illinois, where she met the love of her life, Mike, while they both worked at Outboard Marine Company. They married and built a wonderful life together before making their home in Pinckney, Michigan, where they raised their two beautiful daughters.

Karen found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved tending to her flowers, watching the birds and wildlife that visited her yard, and spending time outdoors. She and Mike shared a love of camping and made countless treasured memories together, especially during their winters in the Florida Keys with their cherished “Sundowner” camping family. She shared many adventures and laughs with her “GALS” group too, where every dinner started with dessert!     

She spent many years working for Pinckney Community Schools and generously volunteered at the local school food pantry, always willing to lend a helping hand and brighten someone’s day with her kind heart.

Karen’s greatest joy was her family. She was a constant, loving presence in the lives of her grandchildren, whom she cherished with all her heart. She is survived by her daughters, Calandra Smith (Matthew) and Brianne Young (Jeffrey); her beloved grandchildren, Anders Smith (Hannah) and Mattea Smith; her step-grandson, Taylor Smith (Michelle); her loving sister, Lauren Tomasiewicz (Robert); her brother, Rowen Carlson; and many extended family members and dear friends.

Karen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Michael Boerma, and her brother, Steven Carlson.

Karen will be remembered for her gentle spirit, warm smile, quiet strength, and the kindness she shared with everyone around her. Though our hearts are broken, we are grateful for the love she gave so freely and the example she set through a life of compassion, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends. Her memory will live on in every blooming flower, every songbird at the feeder, every peaceful campsite, and in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

In honor of Karen, the family encourages everyone to spend time outdoors, plant a flower, feed the birds, or perform an act of kindness for someone in need, just as she so often did.

A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. Monetary donations can be made to the Farley Hill Elementary Food Pantry, and mailed to 8110 Farley Road, Pinckney, Michigan, in her honor. Food donations can be brought to the school during regular business hours if you wish to do so. Please leave a message of comfort for Karen’s family at 1-877-231-7900, or sign her guestbook at www.borekjennings.com.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.