Karen A. Gosz, 85, of Green Bay, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 12, 2026. She was born March 27, 1941, in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, to Wilmar "Pat" and Mary (Lyons) Wagner. 

Karen was raised in Theresa, Wisconsin. After graduating from Mayville High School in 1959, she attended St. Norbert College and earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English. She started her career as a high school English teacher, sharing her love of literature and learning with her students. 

On June 11, 1966, Karen married John P. Gosz, Jr. and the very next day began her life as a devoted military spouse as they moved to Germany. Karen embraced the many relocations that came with John's military service, creating a warm and loving home wherever they went. Following John's retirement from active duty, they settled in Livonia, Michigan. 

Karen was a devoted wife and an extraordinary mother. She never missed an event involving her daughters and was their most enthusiastic supporter. She cherished her role as a stay-at-home mom and took great joy in raising her girls. Known affectionately as the "cool snack mom," Karen delighted in creating fun and nutritious treats that brought smiles to many children. 

A lifelong learner with a creative spirit, Karen had a deep love for writing and produced many thoughtful and meaningful pieces. Her curiosity extended into her many interests, including history, travel, and reading-often juggling multiple books at once. She preferred meaningful conversation over small talk and had a gift for engaging deeply with others. 

Karen found great peace in nature. She loved the outdoors and enjoyed spending time at the family cottage in Alpena, Michigan. Karen took pride in cultivating beautiful flower gardens that she nurtured with care and patience.

Animals held a special place in Karen's heart, especially dogs. She had a particular fondness for Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds and was known for her remarkable ability to train and connect with them. Her beloved dogs-Igor, Igor II, Rusty, Barrington "Baer", Sweeney, and Mr. Mac-were constant companions and a source of great joy. 

Karen is survived by her daughter, Jacqueline Gosz; sister-in-law, JoAnn Gosz; brother-in-law, Robert (Sandy) Gosz; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

Karen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Gosz Jr.; daughter, Jennifer Gosz; her parents, Pat and Mary Wagner; brother, Leonard (Agnes) Wagner; parents-in-law, John Sr. and Helen Gosz; brother-in-law, Joseph (Monica) Gosz; and nephew, Jason Gosz.

Friends and family will gather at Blaney Funeral Home, 1521 Shawano Ave., from 3pm to 5pm on Monday, April 20; Service to follow at 5pm. Burial will be at Allouez Catholic Cemetery. To send online condolences, please go to www.BlaneyFuneralHome.com.

A special thank you to Moments Hospice and New Perspectives for the care and kindness shown to Karen and her family.