Karlene Kay Olinger

Karlene Kay Olinger, 77, of Climax, Michigan passed away on May 13, 2025 in Battle Creek. She was born on October 12, 1947 in Battle Creek, Michigan to Carlton and Betty Olinger.

Karlene graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1966. She went on to attend cosmetology school and 1.5 years of nursing school at Kellogg Community College. She worked as a beautician for 6 years and then utilized her nursing skills at Community Hospital for 10 years and the Battle Creek VA for 22 years, serving as a nursing aide at both. In 1998, she and her mother moved to Climax, Michigan.

Karlene was a devoted daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. She loved visiting with family and friends, especially her grand nephews. She cherished her dogs and pet sitting for others. She actively sought ways to help the elderly and had an affinity for old westerns. She attended and assisted at Peace Community Christian Church, known as a dedicated friend and caring lady.

Karlene is survived by her brother-in-law Richard G. Heger of Cheyenne, Wyoming; her nieces and their spouses Michelle (Scott) Chamberlin of Laramie, Wyoming and Kate (Chris) Canine of Johnstown, Colorado; and 2 grand-nephews Nolan and Winston Chamberlin.

Karlene is preceded in death by her parents, Carlton and Betty Olinger, and her sister, Janet Lee Olinger Heger.

A Celebration of Life gathering will take place at the Climax Mobile Home Park Clubhouse on East ON Avenue on Sunday, June 1 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm.

Services are entrusted to the care of Richard A. Henry Funeral Home, 703 Capital Avenue Southwest, Battle Creek, MI 49015 and condolences may be offered at www.henryfuneralhome.org.

In lieu of flowers, please send charitable donations to the Humane Society of South Central Michigan, 2500 Watkins Rd., Battle Creek, MI 49015, www.hsscm.org.