Karen Elizabeth Blase, 85 of York, died Monday, September 7, 2026 in York. She was born on September 2, 1941 to Robert B. and Blanche (Shroyer) Nelson in Polk. On August 2, 1959, she was united in marriage to Milan Lee Blase in York.

Karen was a longtime member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church and belonged to the Ladies’ Aid organization. She worked at a sewing factory, JC Penney, and made curtains.

She enjoyed making crafts, crocheting, sewing, painting, drawing, cooking, baking, and going camping. She loved her family immensely and the time spent with them all.

She is survived by her sons Kim Blase of York, Kevin (Jodie) Blase of Polk, and Kurt Blase of York; grandchildren, Kasey Blase of Maysville, Missouri, Korey Blase, Jordyn Blase, Karlie (Sean) Walkup, all of York, Joslyn (Zach) Moore of Aurora, Zachary Blase of Scottsdale, Arizona, and Trinity (Joe) Hawthorne of Central City; seven great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Shirley Nelson of Lincoln; nieces; and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Milan; sisters, Ramona (Don) Maw, Ada (Merton) Springer, and JoEllen (Arnold) Peters; brothers, Dale (Phyllis) Nelson, Charles Nelson, and Bill (Judy) Nelson.

Memorial services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Friday, September 18, 2026, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in York. Private family inurnment will be held. Karen has been cremated. There is no viewing or visitation. Memorials may be directed to Emmanuel Lutheran Church in York, or Immanuel Lutheran Church in Polk. Condolences may be left for the family at metzmortuary. com. Metz Mortuary in York is handling the arrangements.

The Republican-Nonpareil| September 17, 2026