Karen "Susie" Rose, 74, passed away on November 11th  at home, surrounded by her children after a brief illness. On June 13th, 1947 she was born to parents Cicero H. VanZandt and Evelyn M. Lee in Springfield, Missouri.

Karen and her husband Donald Rose were united in marriage on May 25th, 1970. Karen loved children, which is why, for over 25 years, she worked at St. John's hospital in Labor and Delivery.

She had a variety of hobbies that she enjoyed and will be remembered for; such as her crafting, cooking, quilting, baking, ceramics,  and tending to her flower beds and indoor plants. Karen also loved to spend time with family, friends, and Romeo.

Karen is preceded in death by her parents Cicero and Evelyn; husband, Donald R. Rose; and sisters, Cindy E Ayers, Sandra VanZandt, and Jeanie Carter.

She is survived by her son, Marlin Cole; daughter, Kimberlee D Godwin; sisters, Vickie VanZandt and Sherry McHaffie; brothers, Harrison VanZandt and James Starr; and special friends who were like children to her, Valerie Jett and husband Rick, and J.C. Coonfield.

A visitation will be held from 11-1 on Tuesday, November 16th at Klingner-Cope Funeral Home at White Chapel. Following will be a brief service at Missouri Veterans Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Cancer Society.