Marjorie (Marge) Elizabeth Karan (maiden name Dunlap) was born the day after Christmas in 1926 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. After a long, robust life she passed into the arms of Jesus on August 14, 2025. At death she was surrounded by her two remaining daughters, Kathleen (son-in-law Gary) and Victoria (son-in-law Robert) and a dear family friend, Helen Keith.

Marjorie was a true daughter of America. She was born and raised in humble surroundings and endured some early health challenges. Nevertheless, she grew into a faithful wife and mother who accompanied her soldier husband, Milos "Mike" Karan, to live at various military bases and into foreign countries. For nineteen of their first 26 years of marriage Marjorie primarily raised her three daughters by herself as her husband was deployed or on assignment.

Marjorie's life was deeply influenced by her brother "Jim" known to most of the local community as Abbot Fidelis Dunlap, O.S.B the Abbott of Saint Leo Monastery until shortly before his death.

Marjorie had so much love for children that she and Mike lovingly cared for 64 foster children, all of whom prospered in her home. Many of these children came from desperate circumstances but connected with Marjorie quite likely because she knew so much of what they were facing.

Majorie had a number of roles that she performed besides being a dedicated wife, mother, and foster mother. For several years she and Mike served as the house parents for troubled teenagers. She had managed the St. Leo golf course, clubhouse, and restaurant. Ever the bundle of energy Marjorie used her sewing skills and she and Mike had an enterprising business at several different places both selling homemade items, and buying and selling collectible dolls, as well as marketing other collectible items. They were always well known for their cheerfulness, honesty and industry.

Despite Mike's passing in 2007, Marjorie kept her business going. When the internet began to change the world of collecting and sewing Marjorie partnered with two of her daughters to open two different online businesses. She handmade items for American Girls dolls and had customers from all over the United States and even several foreign countries. With her daughter Diana, Marjorie supplied collectible Barbie doll items for their on-line business.

Sadly, Diana (her youngest daughter) predeceased Marjorie passing away suddenly in 2022, but Marjorie kept her memory alive and continued her sewing and love of dolls. In her later years Marjorie's travel became limited but whenever she went out she always ensured that her outfits matched her ever-present hat and smile. After Diana's passing Marjorie continued to live independently and was carefully attended by Kathleen and Victoria with a great abundance of support from her dear friend and neighbor, Mary, and two devoted caregivers, Amber and Holly.

Marjorie's life will be celebrated and remembered by a service at the Hodges Family Funeral Home, located at 11441 US Highway 301, Dade City, on Friday, September 5, 2025. The visitation will begin at 9 AM and the service at 10 AM. Marjorie will be interred alongside Mike at the Florida National Cemetery located in Bushnell, Florida.

She is remembered with love and joy by all who were fortunate to know her. Her smile, faith, and simple cheer reflected the best of the Greatest Generation and serve as a model for all who wish their lives to count for others.

While Marjorie loved flowers of all type she loved people more. In lieu of flowers, her memory can be honored by a donation to Senior Care Institute, Inc. (250 John Knox Rd. Suite 2, Tallahassee, FL 32303). SCI is a IRS recognized 501c3 charity dedicated to seniors, their loved ones and care givers.