Karen Suzanne Parmenter

Karen Suzanne Parmenter, age 81, passed away September 22, 2026 after a brief illness.

Born to Robert and Erma O’Connor of Kalamazoo, Michigan, Karen attended Kalamazoo Central High School and earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biology from Western Michigan University. After completing the Medical Technician Internship through Wayne County General Hospital at Eloise in Wayne, Michigan, she moved with her husband William (Bill) Parmenter to London, Ontario, where they lived and raised their family for more than 20 years. Karen also worked as a medical transcriptionist for many years in several medical practices in London, Ann Arbor, and West Branch, Michigan.

Karen is survived by her son Jon (Peggy) Parmenter of Ithaca, New York; daughter Sara (Paul) Boyce of Dearborn, Michigan; and grandchildren Brendan, Claire, Ryan, Jordan, and Lauren. She was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 50 years and her parents. Karen is remembered for her selflessness, grace, and devotion to her family. She was an avid reader who loved book stores and libraries and instilled that passion for learning in her children. Karen also enjoyed cultivating African violets and other plants, maintaining an extensive Christmas card correspondence, keeping up with current events, and attending theater, especially in Stratford, Ontario. Above all, she treasured time with her family and took a great interest in the lives of her grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Karen’s memory to Angela Hospice of Livonia, Michigan or the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation.

Private cremation services entrusted to the Dearborn Location of the Howe Peterson Funeral Homes and Cremation Services. Karen's Memorial Service will be Saturday, December 5th at 11:00 a.m., gathering from 9:30 a.m., located at Howe-Peterson Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 22546 Michigan Ave., Dearborn, MI 48124.