Obituary: Karen J. Guelette

March 18, 1943 – Jan. 9, 2020 

Karen Jane Guelette, 76, of Brussels died peacefully with her family by her side. She was born in Manitowoc to Ralph and Ruth (Brey) Seigworth.

Karen graduated from Brussels High School and on May 27, 1961, she married her high school sweetheart, Gary M. Guelette, at St. Francis Church. Together they raised three daughters. For many years, they operated the Guelette Family Farm in the Town of Brussels.

Karen enjoyed flower and vegetable gardening and spending time at the family cabin. She especially found great joy in being a part of the lives of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who will never forget “Grandma’s famous mashed potatoes.”

She will always be remembered for her infectious laugh, beautiful smile and strong sense of style. She loved fashion and always took great pride in her appearance.

Karen is survived by her husband; two daughters, Jodi Ullman of Brussels and Deb (Todd) Thayse of Forestville; son-in-law, Daren DeClark of Brussels; eight grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, one brother, Ken Seigworth of Sturgeon Bay; in-laws, Lucille Vandertie, Fern Jilot, and Sally (Bill) Wagner. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; her parents-in-law, Albert and Nervin Guelette; daughter Jami DeClark; son-in-law, R.J. Ullman; in-laws, Pat Seigworth, Norman Vandertie, James Jilot, Grace (Lawrence) Baudhuin, and Johanna Guelette.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, Jan. 14, 11 am, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, E2591 Cty S in Casco. Friends may call at the Forbes Funeral Home in Sturgeon Bay on Monday, Jan. 13, 3-7 pm, with a vigil service to be conducted at 7 pm. Friends may also call at the church Jan. 14, 9:30-11 am.

Special thanks to Dr. Hannah Craanen and to the amazing staff at Autumn Fields for the wonderful care and support.

A tribute page is available at forbesfuneralhome.com.