Karen Jo VanderZand, age 61, passed away Thursday, September 30, 2021 at home in Wayland. She was preceded in death by her parents Larry and Sallie Morris; step-son, John Wayne Reniff; son-in-law, Stuart Alan Whipple; grandson, Jonathan Jacob Morris; brother, Larry David Morris Jr.; and sister, Gail Lynn Snyder. She will be deeply missed by her children Sallie Emert, Billy (Becky) Morris, Natasha Whipple, Brandi (Shawn) King, Sally (Trevor) Tobias, Amy Hall, Austin Emert and many step and adopted children; 64 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; siblings Bobbie (Jim) Snyder, Barb DeJong, Sheila Lawrence; and many extended relatives and friends.
Karen had open arms and an open heart; she made family of everyone with whom she came into contact and those who needed a home. She will be deeply missed by all.
A funeral service will be held 1 p.m. Thursday, October 7, 2021 at Kubiak-Cook Funeral Home - Wayland Chapel, 312 N. Main St., Wayland, MI 49348 with visitation from 11 a.m. - 1p.m. prior to the service. In memory of Karen and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the COPD Foundation. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.kubiakcookwayland.com.