Karren Sue (Cooper) Coplen

Karren Sue Coplen, known for her adventurous spirit and kind heart, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025, near her hometown of La Porte, IN.

Born on December 1, 1944, to the late Kelly and Lorraine (Elliott) Cooper, Karren's life was one of creativity, community involvement, and loving family relationships.

In later years, her life was joined with Jim Coplen from South Bend IN. They married on September 5, 2004, and together made a life filled with love and mutual respect. Karren was a devoted mother to her children, Kim (Robert) Owens of Greenwood, SC, Chris Saboski of Portage, MI, and Andy (Jessica) Saboski of La Porte, IN. She was a caring grandmother to Andi and Matt Saboski, who will miss her deeply. She is survived by a loving sister, Rebecca (Dennis) Johnson of Fairfield, Iowa, and preceded in death by her sister, Linda Joseph of La Porte IN.

With an Associate's Degree, Karren channeled her passion for art into a career in graphic arts design. Her creativity was not just her profession but also a vital part of her essence. Karren's involvement with the La Porte County Master Gardeners Association reflected her love for growth, both in her garden and within her community. She was an active participant in the Boy Scouts of America for many years, instilling values of courage and integrity in young minds. Her love for literature was evident through her membership in book clubs of Three Oaks, Michigan, and La Porte, Indiana. Karren also belonged to the American Legion Women's Auxiliary in Three Oaks, Michigan.

Karren embraced life with open arms. Whether she was creating beautiful art and crafts, canning the harvest from her garden, or exploring the wildlife habitat at her home, she brought a sense of wonder and joy to every day. Her curiosity knew no bounds, and she approached each new experience with zest. She leaves behind a true legacy of loving life in the world around her.

A Celebration of Karren’s life will be held from 2-4 PM, Saturday, April 19, 2025, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana, where Words of Remembrance will begin at 4 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Friends of the La Porte County Library to honor her lifelong belief in the power of reading. https://www.laportelibrary.org/friends

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Karren’s life or leave a message of comfort for her family, please visit esslingfuneralhome.com

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