Karen M Massaro-Mundt

Karen Marie Massaro-Mundt, 73, of Fort Gratiot, Michigan died Thursday, March 12,

2026.

She was born December 31, 1952 in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania to the late Arthur and Marcella Massaro. She married Gary J. Mundt on December 12,1981 in Detroit. He preceded her in death on December 22, 2021 after 40 years of marriage.

As a newborn, Karen experienced vision, hearing, and heart impairments resulting from rubella during her mother’s pregnancy. These early challenges shaped her life and inspired her lifelong commitment to advocacy for people with disabilities, their families, and their communities. A woman of deep faith, Karen was also a gifted counselor known for her thoughtful patience and compassion. Yet she was never hesitant to speak up when necessary. Karen was a fierce, articulate, and principled advocate who worked tirelessly to ensure fairness, accessibility, and dignity for others.

Together Karen and Gary raised two children, Terra Marie (Charles) Jackson and

Joseph Mundt. After a catastrophic accident at the age of seven, Joseph required ongoing support for mobility, communication and daily living. Karen devoted herself to supporting him and advocating for accommodations, education services, transportation, personal supports and full inclusion in community life.

Karen was the joyful grandmother of Juliet (16), William (14), and Hailey Rose (11). She is also survived by her brother, Arthur; sisters, Anne and Judy; along with many

cousins, nieces, and nephews; and many dear friends including, Ande, Rose, Bea, Pam, Beth, Nancy, Nicole, Ruth, Ann, Leslie, Joyce and Linda.

Funeral arrangements are being coordinated through Brookside Funeral Home in

Houston, Texas and Pollock-Randall Funeral Home in Port Huron, Michigan.

A memorial event with family and friends will be held in the spring, when the purple flowers are in bloom.

Karen’s life was defined by courage, faith and unwavering advocacy for others.

To send condolences, visit pollockrandall.com