Karen Sue Bledsoe

Karen Sue Bledsoe, 77, of Beech Grove, Indiana, passed away on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. She was born on January 8, 1949, in Indianapolis to the late Charles H. and Magdalene R. (Sater) Bledsoe, Sr.

Karen was a proud 1967 graduate of Sacred Heart High School and later earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Indiana University in 1994. She dedicated her career to caring for others and retired as a registered nurse from Franciscan Health on February 14, 2014.

A woman of deep faith and generous spirit, Karen devoted countless hours to serving her community. She volunteered with St. Vincent de Paul, where she conducted home assessments, assisted with Mercy Meals, and supported the annual Marion Way dinner at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church. She also gave her time to the St. Paul Hermitage, the Pro-Life Ministry, and the Altar Society.

In the later years of her life, Karen experienced a profound renewal of faith and a clearer sense of who she was. She embraced this chapter with humility, gratitude, and a quiet strength that inspired those around her. She found joy in simple pleasures — watching Downton Abbey, enjoying PBS programs, and gathering with friends at her monthly Euchre Club. Known for her giving heart, she donated to nearly every cause that crossed her path and shared freely from what little she had.

Karen was someone her family could always rely on, a steady, loving mother with a kind and selfless soul. She faced many years of health challenges with grace and without complaint, trusting fully in God’s will. Her goodness was unmistakable, and she will be deeply missed by her family and her friends at Holy Name Catholic Church.

She is survived by her children, Jackie (David) Woo, Gregory (Carla) Mertz, and Michael D. (Lisa) Mertz; her siblings, Julie Ann (Jerry) Miller, James (Gemma) Bledsoe, and Gary Sater, Jr. (“the 5th Beatle”); her grandchildren, Zach Woo, Justin Mertz, Lauren Mertz, Emily Mertz-Worster, Corey Mertz, Audrey Mertz, Courtney Mertz, and Kelsey Mertz; and many beloved nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind her cherished cat, Bubby, for whom the family is seeking a new home. Karen was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Chuck Bledsoe.

Family and friends will gather on Saturday, March 21, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Holy Name Catholic Church, 89 N. 17th Street, Beech Grove. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:30 a.m., celebrated by Fr. Robert Robeson. Burial will take place at Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make a charitable contribution in Karen’s name to Holy Name Catholic Church or the St. Vincent de Paul Society. Envelopes will be available at the church.

To share a favorite memory, sign the register book, or order flowers, please visit www.LauckFuneralHome.com.

Arrangements and care have been entrusted to Lauck & Veldhof Funeral & Cremation Services.

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