Karen Kay Bless

Karen Kay Bless left this physical world peacefully on Wednesday April 8th, 2026 surrounded by family. She was born on March 24th, 1952 in Toledo, Ohio to Gladys (Kain) and Dale Bless as the third of four children in their loving family. Karen graduated from Waite high school in 1970. She worked various jobs in her career as an account’s specialist, retiring at University of Toledo Medical Center in their accounts payable department.

Karen was a loving sister, aunt to 9 nieces and nephews, cousin and friend. She played an important role in all of their lives. While her nieces and nephews were young, she would be the weekend babysitter - the fun aunt who would put on records and dance with them, often taking them on fun adventures such as fishing, horseback riding, and fun times out and about. Aunt Karen was always there for important milestones in their lives. When her nieces and nephews grew up and had their own families, she played that same important role to all of the great nieces and nephews. She was deeply loved by all of her family and friends. Karen was often the person to go to for advice or loving support.

Karen loved animals- dogs and horses especially. She was the “mother” to several dogs in her lifetime, and took excellent care of them. Most of her dogs were rescues or dogs looking for a home. Even though she was mostly a dog person, she even took in a cat that needed a home at one point.

Karen also loved music and had an extensive collection of records and CDs. In her younger days, she would frequently go to concerts. One of her favorite stories is where Neil Diamond sang directly to her in the audience. However, John Denver was her favorite singer and she frequently listened to his music.

Karen is survived by her three siblings & spouses: Darlene (Larry {deceased}) Lorenzen, Russell (Amy) Bless, and Randy (Sue) Bless. She is also survived by her 9 nieces and nephews, 14 great nieces and nephews, and many cousins and friends.

For those wishing to make a donation in Karen’s name, she requested The Healing Barn in Millbury, Ohio at thehealingbarn.org or any local animal rescue.