Karen Elizabeth Muir, 72, passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2026, surrounded by her family at home.

She was born August 6, 1953 to Blair and Barbara Walter. After Blair’s sudden passing in 1956, Barbara married James Smallwood. James later adopted Karen.

Karen spent most of her life in Niles, Michigan. She graduated from Niles Senior High School in 1971 and was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Niles.

Karen married Skip Muir on November 10, 1979. Karen and Skip enjoyed making holidays magical, slow dancing, and watching game shows on television. They were blessed with two children, Nicole and Nicholas.

Karen cherished her role as a mother. She was the anchor of the family, strong and supportive.

Her baking and cooking skills were unmatched. Her Rice Krispie Krunchies were a crowd favorite at reunions and family gatherings. Karen had a way with words, from her quick wit to the beautiful poems she wrote.

Karen was overjoyed to learn she had been promoted to grandma of twin boys. With a broken heart, she guided the family through the loss of her first-born grandson. She shared an unbreakable bond with her grandchildren.

Karen is preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Kenton Smallwood and Kim Smallwood; grandson, Hayden Kimmerly; and many others.

Karen is survived by her husband of 46 years, Skip Muir; daughter, Nicole (John Kimmerly) Muir-Kimmerly; son, Nicholas (Gretchen) Muir; grandchildren, Hudson Kimmerly and Noa Kimmerly; sisters, Karol (Philip) Mazzotta and Kaye (Mike) Walker; sister-in-law, Barbara Smallwood; and a host of other family and friends.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, April 19th from 11 am to 2 pm at Milton Township Hall, 32097 Bertrand Street, Niles, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Karen may be made to Christmas Commandos.

Karen’s family extends their sincere thanks to SouthernCare Hospice.