Karen Rix

Karen Rix of Kalamazoo, age 78 died on March 14, 2025. Karen was born July 22, 1946 in Kalamazoo to Kenneth and Lilianne (Laurin) Sweet. She led a life filled with love, dedication, and service to others.

Karen enjoyed a long and successful career in accounting, working for various companies including the Kalamazoo Gazette and Meyer C. Weiner. She later went on to establish her own business, helping countless people with their taxes, before concluding her career with DNA Auto.

In 1987, Karen married the love of her life, Tom Rix. Their marriage was a true partnership, built on deep affection and mutual respect. After Tom’s passing, Karen found joy in ballroom dancing, a hobby that brought her happiness and allowed her to bond with many of her grandchildren, who loved to dance with her.

Family was everything to Karen. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and took great pride in her family relationships. She shared a special connection with her extended family, enjoying regular breakfasts with her cousins.

Surviving are her children: Ken Koning, Denise (Alex Schwartz) Koning, Jason (Heather) Rix; grandchildren: Jordan, Abigail, Lili, Ally, Noah; great-grandchildren: Zoey, Charlie, Lucy; brothers: Scott (Cheryl) Sweet and Donn (Pam) Sweet; and nieces and nephews.

Celebrate Karen’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on her dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial contributions may be made to Lending Hands.

Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900.