Karen Kay Laker

Karen Kay Laker, 84, of Antwerp, Ohio passed away at home on Saturday, September 26, 2026.

Karen was born in Payne, Ohio on October 29, 1941, a daughter of the late Doris (Tobias) and Carl Heckelmann.

On June 12, 1971, she married Jim Laker. Their family was a reflection of themselves, humble, kind and full of faith.

Karen will be sadly missed by her husband, James; daughters, Stephanie (the late Dan) Smith and Stacy Laker; sister, Linda (the late Danny) Keppler; grandchildren, Tyler (Kylee) Smith and Danielle (Sam) Smith, Brooke (Jason) Nicodemus and Jordan (Rebecca) Laker and great grandchildren, Kezlin Luna, Lillian Nicodemus, Charlotte Nicodemus and Grant Laker.

Viewing is Sunday, October 4th, 2 PM to 4 PM at Dooley Funeral home, 202 W. River Street, Antwerp.

Her funeral service is Monday, October 5th, 10:30 AM, with viewing 9:30 to 10:15 AM at Saint James Lutheran Church, 511 W Townline Street, Payne.

She will be laid to rest in Lehman Cemetery, Payne.

Memorials are to The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Community Health Professionals or Saint James Lutheran Church.

Fond memories may be shared at dooleyfuneralhome.com

FLOWERS AND OTHER TRIBUTES MAY BE DELIVERED FRIDAY, 9 AM TO 5 PM AND SATURDAY, 9 AM TO 5 PM TO THE ANTWERP FUNERAL HOME.