Karen S. Sherburne

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the unexpected passing of Karen Sue Sherburne, 71, who left us on January 4, 2025, at Toledo Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. Karen's sudden departure leaves a profound emptiness in the hearts of all who knew her, but her memory will live on through her family, friends, and the love she so generously shared throughout her life.

Karen was born on December 13, 1954, in Toledo, Ohio, to the late Eugene and Loretta Bunker. She is also preceded in death by her brother, Michael Bunker, and her beloved partner of many years, Grant Adler, with whom she shared countless years of love and companionship.

Karen was a 1971 graduate of Perrysburg High School. After high school, her main focus was raising her children and working at the family business, Bunker’s Place, where she bartended. Karen devoted many, many years to working at Foodtown where she remained until her passing. Many of her coworkers and customers quickly grew to cherish her warm personality and became dear friends.

Her family was everything to Karen, and she devoted her life to nurturing them. She is survived by her sister, Kelly (Larry) Lannan, her son, Jason (Nicki) Sherburne, and her daughter, Shannon Chavalia (Jeff Boyle). She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion through her six grandchildren: Austyn (Jacqui), Alec, Addasyn (Ian), Adam, Logan, and Evan. Karen’s fierce love for her grandchildren was unmatched, and she was their biggest supporter, always providing unwavering encouragement and belief in their potential.

Karen was a woman of warmth and compassion. Her infectious laughter, gentle spirit, and unyielding kindness touched everyone she met. She was a devoted friend with a large circle, as she had the rare gift of making everyone feel valued and loved. Whether through small acts of kindness or her deep commitment to those she cared about, Karen’s presence brought light and joy to all who knew her.

Karen’s unshakable strength, love, and generosity will never be forgotten. She was a pillar of strength and a source of comfort and encouragement to many. Her memory will continue to live on through the stories we share and the love she gave so freely.

In accordance with her wishes, Karen has been cremated and "A Celebration of Life" will be held in the Spring, with the date and time to be determined. This gathering of family and friends will honor Karen’s life and the many ways she made the world a brighter place.

Although Karen is no longer with us, she will forever remain in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in peace, her memory cherished always.