EASTMAN FUNERAL HOME 419-929-3781 Karen Rose (Kraus) Byron, age 72, of Wakeman, died Thursday, June 26, 2014 at her home. She was born October 7, 1941, daughter of the late Clarence and Catherine (Ott) Kraus. Karen grew up in Wakeman and was a 1959 graduate of Townsend-Wakeman High School. She attended Bowling Green State University. She taught school at Norwalk St. Paul and Monroeville Public Schools. Karen was a beautician in Wakeman for several years, worked at the Wagon Wheel Restaurant, Wakeman, the Woolworth Store, Sandusky, Berry's Restaurant, Norwalk. She was a former manager of Joann Fabrics. She once owned and operated the Star Diner, Norwalk, delivered newspapers, worked at the Antique Mall, Norwalk, and was a poll worker for over 40 years. Karen was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Wakeman where she was very active in the church choir. She organized the Caring Community Summer Senior Luncheon at the church and many other activities. She was a member of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, and was in the The Wakeman Alumni Assoc. Karen loved to play her piano, sing and perform for groups in the area. She was a true caregiver by helping take care of those in need and watching many people's homes and pets while they were away. She was instrumental in collecting items for the Appalachia area by sending clothes and house hold items. She enjoyed reading, going to concerts, flea markets, garage sales and auctions. She is survived by her brother, Bill (Ruth) Kraus of Cary, North Carolina; niece and nephews, Michael , Rocky, Joe and Cathy ; several great nieces and nephews; and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her brother, Clarence "Rudy" Kraus and niece, Renee Kraus. Friends may call from 5 - 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 1, 2014 at the St. Mary's Social Hall, 46 East Main St., Wakeman, Ohio 44889 where a brief Beta Sigma Phi memorial service will be held at 5:00 p.m.. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Wakeman with Father Doug Taylor officiating. Burial will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery, Wakeman. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the family in care of Eastman Funeral Home, 200 West Main St., New London, Ohio 44851. Online condolences may be made at: www.eastmanfuneralhome.com

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