Karen Lynn Shaffer, age 71 of Braceville Twp. entered into eternal rest on Monday, September 16, 2013 at the Cleveland Clinic. Karen was born on September 10, 1942 in Warren, the daughter of the late Charles L. & Bette J. (Schell) VanEtten. Her father was a general supervisor at Packard Electric in Warren, and her mother was a homemaker. Their family resided a few blocks from Warren G. Harding High School, where she was a member of the class of 1960. She attended Bowling Green State University, earning an Associates degree in 1962. Karen met Raymond J. Shaffer of Braceville while still in high school, and they later attended BGSU together. They were married on February 16, 1963 and later built a home in Braceville. They were blessed with 50 years of marriage and 2 sons. Karen was employed with Packard Electric as a Secretary in the 60's, then was a homemaker for many years taking care of her family that she cared so much about. Later in life she worked at Peerless Winsmith and Warren City Schools. A lifelong tradition of summer vacations at the beach began with her parents taking her to Conneaut, Ohio as an infant, then later with her husband and children to Geneva-on-the Lake. In recent decades the destination was the Outer Banks, and Carolina Beach, NC, often joined by her sons and grandchildren. Karen was a volunteer at the American Red Cross. She was an avid bowler, having participated in league play for nearly 40 years. She also enjoyed golfing, bocce, and card club with friends. The blessing of good health allowed her to enjoy life to its fullest until very recently. Loving memories of Karen will be carried on by her husband, Raymond J. Shaffer of Braceville Twp., her sons, Todd Shaffer of Bowling Green, KY, Marc (Christine) Shaffer of Blythewood, SC, and grandchildren, Kristina, Michael, Ryan and Jesse Shaffer. Karen was preceded in death by her parents. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, September 19, 2013 from 5:00 - 7:00 pm at the James Funeral Home in Newton Falls. Funeral services will be held on Friday Sept.20, 2013 at 11:00 am at the funeral home, and following services, Karen will be laid to rest at Braceville Cemetery. The family requests that contributions be made to the American Cancer Society, East Central Division, 525 North Broad Street, Canfield, OH 44406 in memory of Karen Shaffer. Arrangements have been entrusted to James Funeral Home, 8 East Broad Street, Newton Falls, OH 44444. (330) 872-5440. Family and friends may view this obituary online or send their condolences to Karen's family at www.jamesfuneralhomeinc.com