Karen Jo DeBruyne (Devonshire)

Karen Jo DeBruyne, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on July 17, 2024 in Troy, Michigan. She was born on May 13, 1942, in Marquette, Michigan to Charles Devonshire and Florence Devonshire.

Karen will be fondly remembered for her kindness, contagious laugh, and unfailing strength and courage throughout her battle with cancer. Her vibrant personality and love for life touched all those around her. She leaves behind a legacy of resilience and grace.

In her free time, Karen found joy in sewing beautiful clothes for her children and grandchildren. Her craftsmanship extended to creating dance costumes, Halloween ensembles, pillows, blankets, Christmas tree skirts, and her famous table runners – all cherished mementos by her family.

A social butterfly at heart, Karen enjoyed playing mahjong at the Chesterfield Senior Center and engaging in lively games of LCR with her girlfriends from the apartment complex. Her love for travel took her on adventures to Mesa, Arizona where she spent quality time with her brother Walter and favorite cousin Marcia. Road trips back to Marquette were frequent as she visited family members and childhood friends.

Karen is survived by her children: Cabett (Mark) Sledzinski, Charles DeBruyne Jr (Christine), David DeBruyne (April); grandchildren: Holly, Kayla, Rachael, Gillian (Spencer), Dyllan, Evan, Leah; great-grandson: Weston; sisters: Patricia, Nancy, Judy and her brother, Jim, along with a host of relatives and friends who will miss her dearly. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Florence, along with her siblings, Charlene, Jill, Tom and Walter.

In honoring Karen's memory, may we continue to embody the same strength and kindness that she exemplified throughout her life. She will forever hold a special place in the hearts of those who knew her.

A Celebration of Life will take place later this fall in Karen's hometown of Marquette, Michigan where she will be laid to rest.

Rest in peace, Karen Jo DeBruyne.