Karen Heefner

Karen McGarvie Heefner, 81 of Terre Haute, Indiana, passed away on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at The Gibson Family Center for Hospice Care surrounded by her family. She was born on November 12, 1943 in Great Falls, Montana, to Donald E. and Una Margaret (Binkley) McGarvie. She married her high school sweetheart, Rod Heefner, on June 19, 1965.

Karen is survived by her husband of 60 years, Rod of Terre Haute; daughters Alison Pottratz (David) of Lake Jackson, Texas; Shane Marshall (David) of Terre Haute; and Kristin Pease (Patrick) of Ellensburg, Washington; grandsons Luke Pottratz, Ben Pottratz, Paul Pease, and Will Pease; brothers Paul McGarvie (Carolyn) of Medford, New Jersey, and Scott McGarvie (Barb) of Owensboro, Kentucky; sister-in-law Karen Lee Moore (Earl) of Alva, Florida; and her nieces and nephews.

Karen was a graduate of Moore College of Art and Design. She retired from the Vigo County School Corporation, where she taught elementary art for many years, primarily at Sugar Grove and DeVaney schools. Her artistry was expressed through her oil paintings, needlepoint work and dedication to volunteerism. She was an avid reader, lifelong learner and found joy in bird watching. Karen and Rod shared a love of travel, exploring destinations across the United States and abroad.

While raising their daughters, Karen served as a troop leader for the Covered Bridge Girl Scout Council. She was an active member of Centenary United Methodist Church, where she served as a Sunday School teacher and Past President of the United Methodist Women. She enjoyed leading book studies with Centenary’s UMW Circle group. Karen was a charter member and Past President of P.E.O., Chapter DR, and a member of The Country Club of Terre Haute.

She found her greatest joy in spending time with her family—especially her grandsons, whom she would occasionally let win at Bananagrams. Many of her most cherished memories were family trips to Clear Lake Cottages in Arnstein, Ontario, shared with her parents, brothers and their families.

In accordance with Karen’s wishes, cremation will take place and her ashes will be scattered in a private family ceremony. A memorial service will be planned for a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Terre Haute Humane Society, 14th and Chestnut Community Center, Centenary United Methodist Church or to a charity of your choice.