Karen G. Dale

Karen G. Dale, age 80, of Haslett, Michigan passed away September 6, 2024, at home with her family. Karen was born on June 10, 1944, to Mary (Polaczyk) Melin and John Arthur Melin in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.

Karen moved to East Lansing with her husband Allan in 1962 to support him while he was pursuing his degree. During her life she was the epitome of a caring mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a loving devoted wife with a fulfilling and passionate marriage of 56 years. Karen was not content with just fulfilling the role of a traditional housewife though, she enjoyed pushing the expectations of the time. She was an equal partner to her husband in all his business ventures, founded her own business (Gulliver’s Restaurant in East Lansing), was an avid traveler seeking unique experiences all over the world, a lover of the culinary arts, spent extensive time tending her flower gardens, and never turned down the opportunity to try something new. She also enjoyed passing her passions along to anyone who was interested, with a home that was filled with friends, family, and food at every opportunity. Additionally, Karen was a long-time instructor at Lansing Community College. She wanted to share the knowledge and experiences that she had gained through her long and adventurous life and encouraged everyone to seek their own passions.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Allan Sr., son Allan Jr., and grandson Allan III, siblings John Jr., Mary Lou, Jim, Alex Jr., and Walter.  She is survived by her sisters Sandy and Lori; children Angela Dale of Haslett, Andrea Dale of Cincinnati; grandchildren Aeriel (Jack) Dale, Rick (Rachel) Roth Jr., Samantha (Christopher) Davis, Gary Roth, Emily Roth, Nicholas Algeo, and Matthew Algeo; great-grandchildren, Justin Jr., Kayleigh, Willow, Milo, Sawyer, and Logan; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other extended family.

In lieu of flowers or a contribution, Karen requested that people plant a flower in her memory and continue to push the boundaries as she did, and seek out new, unique experiences. A private family memorial will be held in the spring.

Arrangements are by the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel. Online condolences may be left for her family at www.EstesLeadley.com.