Karen R. Merton

Karen R. Merton, 76 years old, passed away at 5:33 p.m. on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka.  Karen was born on December 5, 1949 in South Bend to the late Richard and Claire (Sullivan) Bandy. She was a resident of Plymouth, IN.  On June 18, 2021 in Plymouth, Karen and Thomas Merton were united in marriage. 

Along with Tom, her loving husband, Karen is survived by her daughter, Carrie (Kris) Jamrozy of Lakeville; three step-children, Lee Cole of Plymouth, Andrew (Jessica) Merton of Plymouth, and Heather (Donnie) Hattery of LaPaz; three grandchildren, Tyler Ramenda, Cameron Jamrozy and Damien (fiancé, Amelia) Jamrozy; and her great grandson, Jasper.  Karen is also survived by her two sisters, Kathy Dutoi and Regina Bandy; brother, Richard (Rich) Bandy; and brother-in-law, Jon Peters.  Along with her parents, Karen was preceded in death by two brothers, George and David Bandy; sister, Theresa Triga-Peters; brother-in-law, Sonny Dutoi; and nephew, Randy Gow.

Karen was retired and loved almost anything outdoors.  She enjoyed fishing, gardening, and doing puzzles.  She especially enjoyed watching all of the activity on the lake.  She loved spending time with her family and friends. 

Friends may visit with the family from 3:00-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at the Palmer Funeral Home, within the Palmer Community Complex, 601 N. Michigan Street, Lakeville.  Cremation will follow at Southlawn Cremation Services. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Karen R. Merton may be donated to the Marshall County Humane Society, 11165 13th Road, Plymouth, IN 46563.  Online condolences may be offered to Karen’s family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.