Karen Sue (Downing) Asher was unexpectedly called home to the Lord on Saturday, Jan. 6, 2018. She was born in Wyandotte, May 4, 1958, to Edward and Joyce Downing. Following graduation from Midland Dow High School, Karen attended Central Michigan University where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science. After graduation her first (and only!) employment was with Dow Chemical Company (Midland) where she worked for 34 faithful years. At the time of her retirement she served as Lead Opportunity Analysis Specialist.

Karen met Bruce Asher in 1981. They were both residents of Woodland Place Apartments where Bruce, having observed Karen out of the corner of his eye, left an introductory note on her windshield! They were married on Sept. 19, 1987 in the Assumption Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church of Midland where she remained a member.

Karen is survived by her loving husband, Bruce Asher; and their children, Karl Asher and Kendra Asher. She is also survived by her parents, Edward and Joyce Downing (Traverse City); and siblings, Jamie (Jerry) Heim, of Traverse City and David (Benita) Downing, of Boylston, Massachusetts; and many nieces and nephews.

Karen enjoyed gardening, fishing, reading and taking the beloved family dog, Kloee, for walks. Her family was very important to her, and she loved spending time with them. Karen also loved her sports. She and Bruce attended all the Michigan State University football games with their Spartan graduates, Karl and Kendra.

The Funeral Liturgy will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 12, 2018 from Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church with Fr. Joe Griffin officiating. The Rite of Committal will follow in New Calvary Cemetery. Family will receive friends at the Wilson MILLER Funeral Home on Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. and at the church on Friday from 10 a.m. until the time of service. A vigil for the deceased will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be offered to Pardee Cancer Treatment Fund of Midland. Personal messages of condolence may be offered at www.wilson-miller.com.