Obituary

Karen Swanberg Brown, age 77, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2025. Born on March 5, 1948, in Detroit, Michigan, Karen was the daughter of Georgia and Irving Swanberg and the second-oldest of six children. She grew up in Southfield, MI. On August 11, 1974, Karen met the love of her life, Burke, and from that day forward the two were inseparable. They married on September 25, 1976 at Martha-Mary Chapel in Greenfield Village. They built a beautiful life together. Karen poured her heart into raising their children, Jason and Audra, who remained her pride and joy. Later, she delighted in becoming “Grannie” to Kerrigan and Nolan, a role that filled her with immeasurable happiness. Karen is survived by her devoted husband of 49 years, Burke; her daughter Audra and son-in-law Tal; her son Jason and daughter-in-law Jamie; and her beloved grandchildren, Kerrigan and Nolan. She is also survived by her siblings Alan, Sue, and Claire. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Doug and Carl. A celebration of Karen’s life will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, at Elton Black & Son Funeral Home, 3295 E Highland Rd, Highland Township, MI 48356.