Karen L. Plegge

SALEM – Karen Lynn Plegge, a lifelong resident of Salem, passed away peacefully at the age of 66 on Saturday, July 6, 2024, Circle of Care nursing facility in Salem.

Karen was born to Tony Plegge and Josephine (Gabrich) Plegge on Friday, June 20, 1958, in Salem. She graduated from Salem High School in 1977.

She was always a wonderful sister, “mom,” mentor and friend to many of her nieces and nephews and her many friends in the community. Although she jokingly said, “I hate children,” she clearly loved them, walking with them to the duck pond and the gas station; showing them how to play with and care for animals; teaching them to crochet, play card games and board games, bake, dance, and sneak into a football game; and giving charming and unique nicknames to each of them.

Karen and several church families, including First Friends Church and Paradise Church of Canfield. She was also known for memorizing large sections of scripture.

She is survived by nine brothers and sisters, Jim Plegge of Kenosha, Wis., Margaret Edgar of Albuquerque, N.M., Frances Gorby of New Waterford, Barbara Plegge of Salem, Joseph (Judy) Plegge of Lisbon, David (Mona) Plegge, Robert Plegge, Dennis (Barbara) Plegge all of Salem, and John (Carla) Plegge of Wooster. Also left to cherish her memory are her 20 nieces and nephews, Wayne and Michelle, Anita and Dawn, Charles, Lisa, Jason and Melissa, Scott, Brian, and Regina, Michael and Matthew, Danielle and Deidra, Robin, Robert and Jennifer, Elizabeth and Thomas; as well as innumerable grandnieces and grandnephews.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Tony and Josephine Plegge; brother, George Gabrich; niece, Cheryl; and nephew, Kyle.

She was loved and will be missed by her family and friends. Calling hours will be from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at Stark Memorial Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow at 1 p.m., with Pastor Phil Valentine officiating.

If unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary "Hugs from Home" program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.

To view Karen's obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Karen L. Plegge, please visit our floral store.