Karin L. Ganser

Karin Lynn Ganser, 72, of South Bend passed away on Monday May 25, 2026, at her home with loved ones present.

Karin was born on June 6, 1953, in South Bend to Charles McNerney and Marilyn (Stuck) Hazelip.

Karin is survived by her mother; Marilyn Hazelip, her children; Neona Rice (Christopher Robinson), Dana Rice (Melissa), and Lindsey Gaynor (George), as well as her grandchildren; Cailyn Rice-Robinson, Beverly Rice-Robinson, Beatrice Gaynor, Ruby Gaynor, and Sara Rice, as well as her siblings; Patrick McNerney, Pamela Shumway, and Linda Pyfer.

Karin was a South Bend native and Jackson High School graduate. She later made Chicago home, where she built a successful career as a realtor through grit and determination. But of all the titles she carried in her life, the one she treasured most was Mom - and later, Grandma.

As a single mother, Karin worked tirelessly to ensure her children had every opportunity she could provide. She did it with strength, humor, style, and more love than seemed humanly possible. Karin was the kind of mother and grandmother who accepted everyone for who they truly are. She celebrated every accomplishment big or small, and could not have been more proud of her family.  Her children and grandchildren were the center of her world, and she made sure they always knew how deeply they were loved.

Karin had the biggest heart and the kindest spirit. She loved feeding people and making everyone around her feel welcome. Karin loved cooking, scary movies, a good estate sale, travel and any excuse for laughter or a good time. She was fun, hip, and endlessly entertaining to those who loved her. She was a dreamer whose greatest joy was seeing those she cherished realize their own. 

More than anything, Karin will be remembered for the way she loved — fully, generously, and unconditionally. The space she leaves behind is impossible to fill, and she will be missed beyond words by her children, grandchildren, family, and the many friends whose lives were brighter because she was in them.

Her family takes comfort knowing that her love, strength, humor, and spirit will live on in all the people she cared for so deeply. 

A celebration of life is being planned for a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made in Karin's memory to Fernwood Botanical Garden, 13988 Range Line Road, Niles, MI 49120, or online at http://fernwoodbotanical.org/tributes

Palmer Funeral Home-Guisinger Chapel is honored to be caring for the family.

Online condolences may be sent via the Palmer Funeral homes website at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com

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