Karen Louise Conrad, age 85, of Rochester Hills, Michigan and formerly of Shelby, died Monday morning, September 7, 2026 at Oakland View Assisted Living in Oakland, Michigan.
Karen was born February 7, 1941 in Shelby, the daughter of Robert Benjamin and Martha Mae (Minich) Seton. After graduating from Shelby High School in 1959, Karen attended Ohio University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in education. She later continued her studies at Oakland University, earning a master’s degree in education.
While attending Ohio University Karen met the love of her life, Michael Conrad, and they married on October 5, 1963. Together, they shared nearly 63 years of marriage and built a life grounded in love. Karen worked as a teacher in several roles before devoting herself to the role she cherished most, caring for her family and raising their son, Dennis. Later in life, Karen ran the Education Research Library at Oakland University.
Karen’s hobbies included quilting and knitting. For more than 20 years, Karen and Mike spent winters in Florida. She had a generous and giving heart and willingly shared her time by volunteering with various charitable organizations in both Michigan and Florida. Though quiet by nature, Karen had a warm and loving spirit and cared deeply for those around her. Faith was also an important part of her life. Growing up, she was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Shelby and later became a member of the Presbyterian Church in Troy, Michigan.
Karen is survived by her husband: Michael S. “Mike” Conrad and their son: Dennis Conrad. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Dorothy Jean “Dort” Hill.
Per Karen’s request there will be no visitation. Private burial will be in Oakland Cemetery in Shelby. Care for Karen and her family is being provided by the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby. Condolences may be left on their website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or Facebook.