Ishpeming- Karen J. Belanger, age 75, long time Ishpeming area resident, passed away Tuesday March 27, 2018 at U.P. Health System Bell while in the loving care of her family and hospital staff.

Karen was born in Hancock on August 20, 1942 to the late Einard and Agnes (Nygord) Ruitta. She grew up in Hancock and was a graduate of Hancock High School. She was a Sunday school teacher. Karen attended Northern Michigan University for one year in their LPN program.  She met her husband, Joe, while working in Milwaukee and they were married on October 9, 1965.  She worked as a Janitor for many years at the NICE Community schools.

Karen loved her grandchildren dearly and would put aside her needs for theirs. She loved spoiling them with small treasures, gifts and treats.  She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially playing anytype of cards or board games. She loved playing BINGO and going shopping. She loved meeting people and a stranger quickly became a friend.

Karen is survived by her husband- Joseph Belanger of Ishpeming, 3 children- Julie (Douglas) Bengson of Appleton, WI, Scott (Diana) Belanger of Ishpeming, Todd (Karie) Belanger of Ishpeming, sister- Janet (Jack) DeBruin of Georgtown, TX, 5 grandchildren- Megan Bengson, Trevor Bengson, Chelsea Belanger, Brenten Belanger, Carsen Belanger, special niece  Jenny (Dwayne) Zimmermann and nephew Jay (Tiffany) DeBruin and great nephews Brandon and Jake along with several other nieces and nephews. Very special longtime friend Kerry Dodendorf.  She was preceded in death by her parents.

Karen's family will greet relatives and friends from 2:00pm – 4:00pm on Monday April 2, 2018 at the Hope Free Lutheran Church in Ishpeming Twp where Karen's funeral service will be held at 4:00pm with Pastor Dave Ryerson officiating. A luncheon will follow in the church fellowship hall. Interment will take place in the Lakeview Cemetery in Calumet.

Pallbearers will be Scott Belanger, Todd Belanger, Douglas Bengson, and grandsons Trevor Bengson, Brenten Belanger, and Carsen Belanger.

Karen's obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.