Karen Sue Schackert Crombie's Obituary
Karen Sue Schackert Crombie, 83, formerly of Canal Winchester, passed away June 10, 2026 after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
Raised primarily in Nelsonville, Ohio, by her parents, James and Thelma Schackert (affectionately known as Jim and Sis), Karen embodied the love, loyalty, and devotion to family that were her foundation.
Family was the center of Karen's world. She shared a long and enduring love story with her husband, Robert "Bob" Crombie. Sweethearts since high school, they were married for 59 years before Bob's passing in 2021, and their marriage served as a lasting example of devotion to all who knew them.
Karen is lovingly remembered by her four daughters: Kara (Steve) Crombie Campbell, Kriston (Jeffrey) Crombie Stotik, Cinda (Robert) Siegel, and Lori Crombie. She was a proud, loving, and devoted grandmother to Elisabeth Siegel, Sam Campbell, Caroline Campbell, Audrey Siegel, and Claire Siegel, each of whom brought her great joy.
She is also survived by her beloved cousins Kay Sands, Jerry Hoffman, Sue Hardesty, Carolyn Hartman, and countless extended family members and friends whose lives were enriched by her kindness and friendship.
Karen dedicated 46 years of service to Canyon Medical Center, where she earned the respect of colleagues and developed many cherished friendships. She was known for her loyalty, strong work ethic, and genuine care for those around her.
A lifelong learner, Karen possessed a vast curiosity about the world. She was a prolific reader whose interests ranged widely, though she held a particular fascination with the American Civil War and the history of President John F. Kennedy and his family, the era that shaped her generation.
Karen found happiness in life's simple but meaningful moments. She treasured Saturday lunches with her children and grandchildren and delighted in gathering her family together. The holiday season held a special place in her heart, with the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas bringing her particular joy. Her warmth, generosity, and love of family made those celebrations memorable for everyone fortunate enough to share them with her.
Though she will be deeply missed, Karen's legacy lives on in the family she cherished, the friendships she nurtured, and the countless lives she touched through her compassion, wisdom, and unwavering love.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff of The James Cancer Hospital for their skill, compassion, and unwavering support throughout their mother's illness, and to Capital City Hospice for the dignity, comfort, and kindness they provided in her final days. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the MMORE Foundation for Multiple Myeloma Research Fund at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute.
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