Karen L. (Bartz-Sirois) Klein, of Chesterton, 68, known as Karen L. Klein, or Nana, passed away June 16, 2009.

She was born October 1, 1940 in Milwaukee, Wis. to Waldo L. Bartz, who preceded her in death, and Eleanor (Sirois) Bartz of Shelby.

She is survived by her children, Kenneth Lee (Pamela Jo) Klein of Hobart, Kerry Ann Klein-Johnston (Philip Neilswinger) of Chesterton; Kevin William Klein (Sherry Szmanda) of New Carlisle and Kristyn Lynn Klein of Chesterton.

She is also survived by grandchildren, Christopher M. Klein, Heather M. Klein, Jordynn (Jody) N. Klein, Kenneth Lee II (Brooke) Klein, Karen K. Klein, Lisa M. Klein, Kyle W. Klein, Jacob J. Johnston, Robert C. Neiswinger, Scott M. Neiswinger, Joshua D. Klein, Kali R. Klein, Kelsey J. Neiswinger and Kaiden M. Klein; great-grandchildren, Levi, Emily and Kylee; Golden friend, Dr. Philip E. Kellar.

Also surviving are siblings, Steve M. (Gwen) Bartz of Texas/Alaska, Kathy L. Jackson of Chicago and Dr. Mark A (Rosie) Bartz of S.C.; God son, Jason Bartz and beloved cat, Ryley.

She is preceded also in death by a grandson, Michael Ryan Klein.

Karen was a 1958 graduate of Lowell High School, Lowell, Ind. She held a successful career in health care administration and public service. Among her many life accomplishments include: Co-founder of Hobart Food Pantry, Co-founder and owner of Pier K, Co-founder of Prompt Medical Care in Merrillville. Co-founder and owner of Health Care Consultants, former member of Chesterton, Highland, Hobart and Merrillville Chambers, Guardian Ad Litum/CASA and advocate/mentor for children through Prevent Child Abuse Porter County Council. She loved gardening, cooking, decorating, spending time at the Dunes and spoiling her grandchildren.

Memorial service will be at 10 a.m., Saturday, June 20, at White-Love Funeral Home, 525 S. Second Street, Chesterton.

The family will receive friends from 5-8 p.m. Friday, June 19 at the funeral home.

For information, please call 926-1309.

Posted 6/18/2009