Deena L. Karnes, age 64 of Defiance, peacefully passed away on Friday, March 28, 2025 at CHP Defiance Area Inpatient Hospice Center.

She was born on September 25, 1960 to the late John and Vivian (Gallant) Mitchell in Defiance, Ohio. Deena was a 1978 graduate of Defiance High School, earned her Bachelor's Degree from Defiance College and her Master's Degree from the University of St. Francis in Fort Wayne, IN. On August 5, 2004 she married Philip Karnes, who survives.

Deena was a passionate teacher and dedicated several years at Defiance Elementary and Jr. High Schools. She enjoyed gardening, bike riding, traveling, music, and riding in her convertible. She will be greatly missed by her family and many good friends.

Deena is survived by her loving husband Philip Karnes of Defiance, her son, Eric (Kristin) Shannon of Chicago, IL, daughter, Codi (Joe) Hildebrandt of Lakewood, OH, her stepchildren, Casey Karnes, Amy (Nelson) Novak and Emily Karnes, and siblings Juli Kunesh and John (Kim) Mitchell. She also leaves behind eight grandchildren, Grace, Hugo, Henry, Nolan, Raegan, Vivian, Nova, and Gus.

The family will receive friends and family on Friday, April 4, 2025 from 2:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance, and from 10:00 am to 11:00 am on Saturday before the service. A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at 11:00 am at the funeral home, with Celebrant Deb Miller officiating.

Memorials are suggested to Alzheimer's Association or CHP Defiance Area Hospice Center.