Karen von Burg

Karen von Burg (formerly Lucas), 82, of Vermilion, passed away on Monday, December 8, 2025, at Mill Manor Nursing Home after an illness.

She was born on October 27, 1943, in Oberlin, OH, graduated from LaGrange High School in 1961, and had made Vermilion her home for the past 50 years.

Karen worked as an administrative assistant for U.S. Steel and later as a secretary for SCM Glidden Durkee Foods. Beyond her professional life, she lived with creativity, a deep love of her land and mother nature, and a passion for peace. She was a gifted poet, and shared her beautiful singing voice as the lead singer of the Silver Creek Bandits, a country band with a little bit of rock ’n’ roll.

A lover of cats and quiet moments outdoors, Karen cherished time with her family most of all. She delighted in making up imaginative stories with her grandchildren and taking them on long walks around her woods and creek together.

Left to treasure her memory are her children, Jeffrey Marcero and Wendy Marcero; and her beloved grandchildren, Austin, Justin, Brandon, and Lauren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Wilma (formerly Neiswinter) Lucas.

Honoring Karen’s wishes, no public services will be held. A private memorial will be held in the spring, her favorite time of year.

Online condolences may be shared at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.