Cover photo for Karen Martell's Obituary
Karen Martell Profile Photo
1950 Karen 2023

Karen Martell

April 4, 1950 — December 17, 2023

Karen Kupfer Martell, age 73, of Sapphire, North Carolina, passed away on December 17, 2023. She was born on April 4, 1950, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Karen was a beloved wife to Steve Martell, a loving mother to her children Bryan (Jonette) McQuide, Andrew (Joanna) McQuide and Lindsay (Joseph) Tristine, an adoring grandmother to Maxwell McQuide, Michalene McQuide, Daniel Tristine, Siena Tristine, Samuel Tristine and Zachary McQuide, and a wonderful sister to her brothers Bob (Colleen) Kupfer, Brad (Kathy) Kupfer and David (Teri) Kupfer.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Caroline Kupfer, and her youngest brother, Thomas (Bucky) Kupfer.

Karen was a cherished member of the Sapphire, North Carolina community for the past 25 years. Her most recent employment was at Sapphire Valley Resort, where she excelled in guest services. Before her tenure at Sapphire Valley Resort, she graced the restaurant industry with her engaging presence, serving at Chattooga Club, High Hampton Resort, The Orchard, and Sapphire Mountain Golf Club (now Sapphire National Golf Club). Prior to residing in Sapphire, Karen lived in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, where she worked many years as a respected realtor and event planner.

Karen had an infectious spirit and love for life. She exuded warmth and vitality, effortlessly connecting with others through her outgoing nature, boundless energy, and unfailing kindness and generosity. To Karen, there were no strangers, only friends she looked forward to meeting. She deeply loved her family and especially cherished her six grandchildren. She found joy in cooking, collecting crafts, reading, playing board games and spending time with her beloved husband, Steve, and dog, Lambeau.

Her dynamic presence lit up every room she entered, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her. She led life with her heart and was loved by so many. She will be dearly missed.

Please join us to celebrate Karen’s life: Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 14th, 11:00 am at Cashiers United Methodist Church (894 Highway 107 South, Cashiers, NC), followed by lunch at Sapphire Valley Resort Community Room (127 Cherokee Trail, Sapphire, NC).
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Karen Martell, please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Past Services

Memorial Service

Friday, June 14, 2024

Starts at 11:00 am (Eastern time)

Cashier's United Methodist Church

894 Hwy 107 South, Cashiers, NC 28717

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