REPUBLIC, MI – Karin E. Venn, age 59, of Republic, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Thursday, March 12, 2026.

Karin was born on February 11, 1967, in Waukegan, Illinois, to Erich and Gayle (Peterson) Schwanke Sr. She spent her early childhood in Waukegan before her family moved to Republic in 1976. Growing up alongside her sister and three brothers, Karin built the close family bonds that remained central to her life. She attended Republic-Michigamme Schools and graduated with the Class of 1985. During her school years, she was a member of the band and was known as a talented clarinet player.

After high school, Karin began working at The Robin’s Nest in Republic. Many in the community fondly remember calling her “Mrs. Beasley,” noting her resemblance to the doll from the television show Family Affair, complete with her signature perm and black glasses. Karin worked at The Robin’s Nest until 1998, when she welcomed her daughter, Gayle. Over the following years, she dedicated her time to raising her daughter, taking on various jobs, and happily babysitting her nieces and nephews.

In 1988, while working at The Robin’s Nest, Karin met Ronald Venn. The two quickly became inseparable. Ron moved back to Republic the following year, and they were married in 1995. Together they built their life in Republic and began raising their family. Karin’s greatest joy was being a mother to Gayle and spending time with those she loved most.

Later in life, Karin embraced her role as Nana, and her grandchildren quickly became her pride and joy. They will always remember the random crafty “treasures” she carried in her purse just for them—she never let them leave empty-handed and was always ready with a fun little project to keep them busy.

Karin was an avid walker who put many miles on her sneakers. She loved music, especially Johnny Cash and The Beatles, and had an impressive knowledge of pop culture. Friends and family were often amazed by her ability to recall actors, actresses, and movie trivia. Among her favorite films were Austin Powers and Kill Bill. She also enjoyed watching M*A*S*H, Dateline, and just about any true crime investigation show—something Ron would jokingly say worried him from time to time.

When she wasn’t spending time with Gayle and her grandchildren, Karin enjoyed relaxing at camp, where she and Ron spent many peaceful evenings with their dogs, enjoying the quiet, sharing laughs, and simply being together.

Karin will be remembered for her kind soul and the deep love she had for her family. Though she was quiet and often kept to herself, those who knew her understood just how much she cared.

She is survived by her husband of 31 years, Ron; daughter, Gayle (Andrew) Hudson; grandchildren, Lillyanna, Exsavior, and Octavia; step-grandchildren, Elijah, Zileighanna, and Galaxie; her siblings, Erich Schwanke Jr., Robert (Carol) Schwanke, Henry (Kim) Schwanke, Wanda Koski; nephews, Joshua Schwanke and Philip Koski; nieces, Samantha (Domenick) Stewart and Quincy Schwanke; her great-nephew, Zach Sirtola; and great-niece, Aurora Koski; along with numerous other family members and friends.

Karin was preceded in death by her parents, Erich and Gayle Schwanke Sr.; father-in-law, Paul Venn; a brother-in-law, David "Wooley" Venn; and her nephews, Jason "Spike" Sirtola and Nathan Koski.

A memorial service honoring Karin’s life will be held at Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 4, 2026. The family will greet relatives and friends from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at 1:00 p.m. Pastor Alex Ross will officiate. Following the memorial service, a potluck reception will be held at the Republic-Michigamme School at 3:00 p.m. If you would like to bring a dish to share or help serve, please contact Beth Heliste 906-371-0814 or Lynn Koski 906-251-8621.

A full obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com, where relatives and friends are invited to leave notes of remembrance.