Karen Bueby

June 22, 1964-July 27, 2023

Karen Bueby, 59, of Santa Rosa Beach, FL, passed peacefully on the evening of Thursday, July 27, 2023, at Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola, FL with loving family and friends by her side.

Karen was an artist from the age of 9 when she received her first art supplies for Christmas. She never stopped creating beautiful pieces of art – whether it was acrylic paintings, or crafts made of seashells and driftwood.

All who knew Karen, will surely miss her. She was a kind hearted, creative soul, who made each day count. Upon graduating from high school in Bellaire, in 1982, she went on to attend NMC in Traverse City, for their fine arts program. Soon after, Karen married childhood friend Dave Runyan and they had 2 daughters together. They shared many good years, and remained close friends after separating. While living in Northern Michigan, she became a certified florist and worked at Petals in Charlevoix, as a floral designer, and later on at Boca Blooms in Boca Grande, FL. Marrying the love of her life ‘dear John’ in 2005, started a new and exciting chapter of her life. They had a shared passion of boating, which led them to transition from homeowners in Bellaire, to live-aboard on their boat, in Florida, making many wonderful friendships and a lifetime of memories. Karen loved searching for seashells and had a keen eye for finding the most beautiful, perfect ones. Karen’s daughters will miss her ability to seek out the nearest bathrooms and the way she cussed when she sneezed.

Karen was a loving wife, caring mother, cool grandma, supportive sister, and a friend to all. She touched many lives and was a bright light that will keep shining in the hearts of those who knew her. Karen is survived by her loving husband of 18 years, John Bueby. Her children, Sean (Catherine) Finnegan, Rachel Allman, Miranda Runyan, and Christopher (Samantha) Bueby. Her grandchildren Paisley Runyan, Eleanor, Johanna, Charlotte, and Hennessy Finnegan, and Owen Bueby. Siblings, Denise Wilks-Hardy, Bryan Hardy and Gayle Hardy. Parents, Robert and Marlene Hardy, and Jack and Nancy Bueby.

At this time there are no plans for a memorial, but there may be a Celebration of Life at a later date. If you are able or feel the desire to make a donation in honor of Karen, please consider donating to the Glioblastoma Foundation.