Karen Riggs (McClelland)

life story

With heavy hearts and treasured memories, we announce the passing of Karen Lee Riggs, who left this world unexpectedly while enjoying one of the first — and what she hoped would be many — retirement getaways in Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula.

Karen was the beloved wife of Douglas Riggs and loving mother to Lance (Angel) Riggs , LaceyJay (William) Hensen, and Lauren (Joshua) VanOpynen . She was an incredible Mimi/Grandma to Ethan and Olivia VanOpynen, Eila and Brys Hensen, Savannah and Selah Riggs.

She was preceded in death by her dear parents, Edith and Ralph McClelland; her in-laws, Barbara and Neal Riggs; her sister, Sue Potter; brothers-in-law Terry Jordan and Alan Benedict; and her niece, Paula Grooters.

Karen is survived by her sisters Rachel Jordan, Gail Benedict, Charyl (John) Newman, and Diane (Darryl) McGhan, as well as many nieces and nephews who were more like siblings than extended family.

Born the youngest of six girls, Karen grew up on the family farm in Freeport, MI — a childhood that sparked her lifelong love of nature and rock collecting. She formed deep bonds with her sisters, nieces, and nephews, creating the foundation for the family-centered life she would go on to build.

Karen attended Lakewood Public Schools and was a graduate of the Class of 1978. Shortly after high school Karen met Doug while "cruising the gut". Doug used the loudspeaker on his car to stop her at the turnaround, which is now Buddy's on the Beach bowling alley in Lake Odessa. They were married on February 24, 1979, and built a life filled with laughter and shared dreams.

Driven by a passion for education, Karen pursued her Bachelor’s Degree in Education at Grand Valley State University while raising three young children and working part-time — a testament to her determination and heart. She graduated with honors in 1993 and went on to work with many children in area public schools. Later, she continued her joy of helping others through her work at Michigan Works and through Grand Rapids Community College, where she touched countless lives — both those she served and those she worked alongside — before retiring in January, 2024.

Karen’s greatest joy was her family, especially her six grandchildren. She will be fondly remembered for baking cookies, crafting, reading stories, going rock hunting, and the unique treasures she found just for them at Goodwill. She made each of them feel so very special.

She passed down her mother’s tradition of singing her own version of “Nickity Nickaty Now Now Now” by Chubby Parker — a song Olivia and Savannah would call just to hear her sing. Family game nights and pancake breakfasts were her specialty. Her epic buttermilk pancakes and bacon became a beloved sleepover tradition. For Ethan and Olivia, Mimi could turn a simple frozen bag of peas into their favorite vegetable, simply because she made them. Brys knew her as the silly Grandma who was always trying to playfully swipe his favorite soft blanket — the very same favorite she had gifted to Eila. And Eila treasured the one-of-a-kind craft supplies Grandma always set aside just for her.

Her grandchildren will carry with them the joy, laughter, and love of their Mimi/Grandma forever.

Karen also enjoyed attending and hosting Bunco nights at her home of over 30 years in Fruitport, MI. Upon retiring she moved to Roscommon, MI where she enjoyed gardening, playing Euchre with friends, and time for reading.

Karen brought warmth, kindness, and a contagious laugh — one of those unforgettable cackles — to every room she entered. Her unwavering positivity and generous spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Rest in peace, Karen. Your love lives on, and you will be so very missed.

memorial service

Celebration of Life for Karen Riggs

September 28, 2025

Central Park Place 421, 422 Columbus Ave, Grand Haven, MI 49417, USA

Please join us in honoring the life of Karen Riggs on Sunday, September 28th, from 2:00–6:00 PM at Central Park Place in Grand Haven, MI.

We welcome anyone who would like to share a memory or speak in her honor. A pancake dinner will be served, and guests are invited to bring a dish or drink (alcohol is permitted) that reminds them of Karen.

If you'd like, you’re also invited to leave a special rock at her memorial as a tribute to her memory.

Free street parking is available around Central Park Place. Parking lots are available across the street on 5th and Columbus, as well as south of Central Park and the Courthouse on Franklin between 4th and 5th Streets.