Karen J. Leslie

January 15, 1945 - March 31, 2026

A memorial service to honor and celebrate her life will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, beginning at 12:00 pm, at Joldersma & Klein Funeral Home, 917 S. Burdick St. Kalamazoo, MI 49001. The family will receive friends beginning at 11:00 am, one hour prior to the service. Private interment will be held at Ft. Custer National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice c/o the funeral home.

Karen J. Leslie, age 81, passed away on March 31, 2026, at Bronson Hospital surrounded by loved ones. Karen was born in Saginaw, MI on January 15, 1945, the daughter of the late William and Marjorie (Herron) Hamlin. Karen was filled with a joyful spirit and selfless nature. Her heart and her home were open to others, and she leaves behind the legacy of a life well lived. On November 25, 1967, she married the love of her life, Richard Leslie who preceded her in passing in 2023. Karen was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She led by example and faith. When able she attended Radiant Church and enjoyed bible study when possible. She was gifted at sewing, other crafts and playing cards with friends and family. She was a loyal Detroit sports fan, who always pulled for the Tigers, Lions and Redwings. She made wonderful memories while taking cruises with her siblings. Above all Karen loved her family and was especially proud to watch her family grow. She will be missed by all who loved her! Karen is survived by three children, Erin (Rick Perkins) Chatterton, Chad (Sarah) Leslie, Jason (Racheal) Leslie; stepchildren, Lori (Dwight) Webster, Lisa (Gary) Raessner; many grandchildren and several great-grandchildren; siblings, Kathy (Tom) Taylor, Kay (Earl) McGregor, Ken (Alice) Hamlin, Sue Hamlin; several nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. She was also preceded in passing by siblings, Bill Hamlin, Tom Hamlin and Barbara Jean Hamlin.