Karen Sue (Thomas) Anderson

Karen Sue (Thomas) Anderson, age 62, passed away peacefully at home after a battle with cancer, on Thursday, November 13, 2025, in rural Harpster, Ohio.

Karen was born on June 29, 1963, to Robert "Bob" and Marilyn R. (Myers) Thomas. Karen married Philip Anderson on May 26, 1993, in Marion, Ohio, and he survives.

Karen is also survived by her daughter, Jessica (Pelfrey-Messmer) Penwell of Upper Sandusky, stepson Matthew Anderson of Marion, 3 grandchildren, Keaton, Kinzie, and Maleena Messmer, 3 step grandchildren Courtney (Michael McClain), Madalyne, and Cameron Anderson. Karen is also survived by 5 siblings: Denny (Linda) Thomas of Harpster, Debbie Thomas of Upper Sandusky, Brad (Donna) Thomas of Harpster, Brandon Thomas and Brenda Thomas, both of Upper Sandusky, and many nieces and nephews.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, brother Kevin Thomas, nephew Kevin Thomas, and niece Jenny Karg.

Karen attended school in Upper Sandusky and went on to work as a cook for Michael's Steak House in Marion, and then Perkins. Later, Karen owned her own antique store in Harpster, known as Harpster Mall of Antiques and Collectibles.

Karen loved living in Killdeer Plains where she could enjoy bird watching, and all of the wildlife that was just out her back door. She loved spotting eagles. Karen also loved going on motorcycle rides with her husband. Taking trips to Indian Mill where she would hunt for arrowheads and other artifacts, and going to auctions to find antiques. Karen had a green thumb and loved tending to her many houseplants, flowers, and garden. Karen especially loved spending time with her grandchildren.

A memorial service for Karen Anderson will be held at 4:00 pm on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the Lucas-Batton Funeral Home in Upper Sandusky and will be officiated by Pastor Bill Williamson. Visitations will be held from 1:00 – 4:00 pm, on Saturday, prior to the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Community Christian Center, or Bridge Home Health and Hospice, and can be sent to Lucas-Batton, 476 S. Sandusky Ave. Upper Sandusky, OH 43351.

Ohio Department of Natural Resources

Community Christian Center
Upper Sandusky OH 43351

Bridge Home Health & Hospice
Findlay OH