Karen Ruth Poyner

Karen Ruth Poyner passed away peacefully in her sleep early August 17th, 2021, at the age of 79 at Close to Home Assisted Living in Bay City, Michigan.
Karen was born to the late Rhinehardt and Mildred (Shelley) Gripentrog in Marshfield, Wisconsin on January 26th, 1942. In her late 20's, Karen married Bert Poyner, who preceded her in death. Karen and Bert raised three sons. Her son Richard "Buddy" Poyner also precedes her in death. Karen leaves behind her sons, Rocky (Emily) Poyner and Bert Jr. "B.J." Poyner; seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
Karen is also survived by two brothers, Lyle (Pamela) Gripentrog and Gary Gripentrog; five sisters, Violet Leonard, Lavon (John) Schmoll, Beth Breu, Debra Laporte and Mary Jo Gripentrog and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her brothers, Bob Gripentrog, Dale Gripentrog, Jon Gripentrog, Jim Gripentrog; two sisters, Frances Smith and Rachel Bigelow.
While Karen fought a lengthy battle with dementia, she always found a way to smile and joke with her family and the people closest to her. She loved listening to music, and back in the day would find great joy tending to her flower garden. She enjoyed reading, putting puzzles together and visiting with her family.
The family would like to thank Michelle Compau for the great care she gave Karen over the last few years. Thanks go out to the caretakers at Close to Home Assisted Living on Raymond Street in Bay City.
Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held in Montgomery, Alabama at a later date.