Karen Knauer Obituary

Karen Knauer

Aug 14, 1946 - Jan 24, 2026

Sandusky

Karen Holbrook Knauer, 79, residing in Sandusky, passed away Saturday, January 24, 2026, after a courageous battle against cancer.

Karen was born August 14, 1946, in Winchester, Virginia, to the late Nelson and Helen (Miller) Holdbrook. She grew up in Bluefield, West Virginia.

Karen graduated from Concord University in Athens, West Virginia, where she was a member of Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority. Her graduate work was completed at Bowling Green State University. After her family, her greatest love were her students. She was a teacher for Sandusky City Schools for over 30 years, she supervised many student teachers, served on several state committees, and was honored with the Martha Holden Jennings Award for Excellence in teaching. Karen was a member of Huron Jr. League, Delta Kappa Gamma and College Women's Club. After retirement, she greatly enjoyed playing bridge with her friends, monthly dinners with her Westwind group and her music.

Karen is survived by her husband of over 55 years, Gary Knauer, whom she married December 19, 1970. She is also survived by her two children, Chad and Jennifer; three beloved grandchildren, Skylar, Spencer and Vayda; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

In addition to her parents, Karen is preceded in death by her two brothers, Duane and Dwight.

Private family services will be at a later date. The family has entrusted Groff Funeral Homes & Crematory with arrangements.

Those wishing to contribute to Karen's memory may do so to Stein Hospice Services, 1200 Sycamore Line, Sandusky, OH 44870, or Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516.

Condolences may be shared online at www.grofffuneralhomes.com.