Karen Louise Schweyer, 78 of Ashland passed Sunday May 1, 2016, following an extended illness.  She was born in Pittsburgh, PA on August 21, 1937 to Ralph and L. Lucille McClead.  Karen spent most of her childhood in Mansfield.  While attending Ashland College, Karen met Carroll Schweyer, her husband of 58 years.  She taught elementary school until she had children of her own, then was delighted to work at home on the family farm.  When her children reached high school, Karen returned to education, teaching children with learning disabilities at Hillsdale and Loudonville Schools.
Most of her interested time revolved around family, the family farm and church.  Karen was very active in the Jeromesville Christian Church and Ashland First Presbyterian.  She loved reading, children, animals, gardening and of course, farming.
Always optimistic, Karen lived by the motto, "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all."  Her spirituality, openness and caring extended to others, particularly to children and those without families, who were warmly welcomed to join her for meals, holidays and any number of family activities.
Karen is survived by her husband and children: Anna Simpson, Sabrena Schweyer (Samuel Salsbury), Joel Schweyer (Karla) and Lucinda Arnold (Brian); siblings, Chuck, Letha and Jim McClead and Norene Delong; and 11 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.
Services will be at a later date.
Fickes Funeral Home in Jeromesville assisted the family with arrangements.
Online condolences may be made at www.fickesfuneralhome.com.