Karen Sue Manna, 73 of Valparaiso, passed away Thursday, May 7, 2026, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. She was born on May 27, 1952 in Gary, Indiana, the daughter of Walter and Bessie (Vasil) Semplinski, Jr. Karen was a loving wife and mother who despite all odds, always chose peace and love above all. She devoted her life to motherhood and had a love of crocheting, leaving her art for her family to cherish.
Karen is survived by her mother, Bessie Semplinski; children, Michelo (Lissette) Manna, Melinda “Mindy” Cirak, and Kristi (George) Dresbaugh; grandchildren, Romeo Manna, Hunter, Analyse, Gavin, Kendra, and Greenlee Cirak, and Josh (Danielle) Dresbaugh; great granddaughter, Anna Dresbaugh; sisters, Shari (Mike) Kucik and Judy Semplinski; and nephews, Ryan and Jacob Kucik. She was preceded in death by her father, Walter and husband, Michael J. Manna in 2025.
GUESTBOOK
There was so much more about Karen’s talent that was not mentioned. Knitting was what she did when she couldn’t do anything else. Musical genius, voice of an angel, state champ in gymnastics at Merrillville High school. A creative genius in many areas. Challenged anything that was said to be impossible and mastered it with a simple solution. If you knew her you would agree that I am not even scratching the surface, u could go on and on. Love you Karen and miss you. See you in the second coming. -Lizard
