Remembering Karen Hoisington Donaldson

2/17/1943 - 12/3/2015

Location: Winter Haven, Florida

Visits: 6,362

Karen Mae Hoisington Donaldson, formerly of Cadillac, passed gently into the next world on Thursday, December 3, 2015, following a stroke. She was 72.

Born February 17, 1943, Karen was the oldest child of the late Laurence and Irene (Blackmer) Hoisington of Cadillac, and enjoyed growing up with her two sisters, Mary (Wayne) Sluiter and Cheerie (David) Bultman. After high school, Karen married the late Robert Schweer and welcomed her first two children, Cathy (Duane) Musser and David Schweer, who survive her. Karen supported her two children by working multiple jobs and taught them the value of a strong work ethic. Later in her life, Karen welcomed her third child, Laura (Bill) Genovich, and she devoted years to helping Laura participate in theatre and musical programs. In 1987, Karen found the love of her life, Robert Donaldson, through a "letter to the editor" in the newspaper. Their life together was never dull, and in 2004, they left the cold Michigan winters for year-round living in central Florida.

Karen was a talented writer who published two books; an award-winning photographer and artist; an ordained minister; and a strong, opinionated advocate for causes close to her heart. She had a lively, fighting spirit and had survived three lightning strikes, cancer, heart surgery, and driving an RV off a cliff — and she loved telling people about those adventures. She enjoyed genealogy, spirited political debates, making greeting cards and other hand-made crafts, and shopping with her many dear friends and relatives. Most of all, Karen loved her family and doted on her children and grandchildren, and was always available for the ones she loved.

Karen is survived by her husband; three children; two stepdaughters, Samantha (Mike) Zuiverink and Roberta (John) Kennedy; 14 grandchildren; and one great-grandson. A memorial service will be held at a later date in Cadillac.

Memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children or to the family.

Karen was loved tremendously and will be greatly missed.