Karen Marie Houghton, 76, of Harpersfield, Ohio passed away Monday, May 12, 2025, at the David Simpson Hospice House in Cleveland after an 8-year battle with cancer.
She was born February 3, 1949, in Cleveland, Ohio to Alfred and Mary (Neber) Zickus and graduated from Eastlake North High School in 1967. Karen was married to Marion D. Houghton from 1970-1986 and later was engaged to Charles "Butch" Helmick until his passing in 2003.
Karen worked 34 years as the Secretary to the Finance Director for the City of Eastlake. In her free time, she loved Polka dancing and crocheting and was a member of the Geneva Fraternal Order of Eagles Lakeshore Aerie #2243.
She is survived by her son, Matthew Houghton and his girlfriend, Beth Kostrab.
Karen was preceded in death by her fiancé, Charles "Butch" Helmick; parents, Alfred and Mary (Neber) Zickus.
She will be laid to rest in Harpersfield Cemetery.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Contributions can be made to the family c/o Lake Erie Cremation and Funeral Services, 1500 Harpersfield Road, Geneva, Ohio 44041.
www.LakeErieCrematory.com