Sister Mary Karen Werra RSM

August 18, 1937 - March 12, 2022

Sister Mary Karen Werra RSM age 84 of Grand Rapids was discharged from Emanual Hospice into heaven to spend eternity with our Lord on Saturday March 12, 2022. Sister Karen was preceded in death by her parents Stephanie and Peter Werra; her siblings Russel (Margaret) Werra, Geraldine (Anthony) Alksnis, Esther (Herbert) Dengler. She is survived by many loving nieces and nephews, their families, and the Sisters of Mercy community. Sister Karen taught within the Mercy educational School system that included Our Lady of LaSalette, St. Andrews, St. Brigid, St. Patrick, Immaculate Heart of Mary, Holy Cross, St. Mary (1962-1975). From (1975-1986) she directed and taught in the Developmental Services Program at Mercy College of Detroit. Returning to elementary education in (1987-2002), she taught fifth graders at St. Andrews’s Cathedral School, Grand Rapids. She also volunteered as tutor for the Dominican Word Program. Before leaving the ministry of education, she was awarded the Excellence in Education Award and was listed among Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers. She later volunteered at God’s Kitchen from (2002-2013). She was responsible for assisting in meal service for both the Meals on Wheels program and for serving people at Capitol Lunch. Additionally, she served as Eucharistic Minister and lector at Holy Spirit Church. She generously volunteered her time visiting and being with the sick and elderly. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday March 17 at 11:00 am at Holy Spirit Church. Sister Karen will repose at the church one hour before the Mass. Visitation will be held at the Arsulowicz Brothers Remembrance Mortuary, 3525 Remembrance Rd NW Wednesday March 16 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm with a Solemn Vigil Service at 6:00 pm at the funeral home. Memorial contributions to the Sisters of Mercy will be appreciated.