Mackinack-area media reports state Schwarck, 59, was on a snowmobile photo excursion with her sister, Edith Bonno, 57 of Canton when it is believed their snowmobiles fell off the island’s rugged West Bluff road.

According to reports, the women were found dead at the scene west of the Grand Hotel.

A search was conducted for hours before the women were found. Karen’s husband, Donald, notified police when the women did not arrive home.

Donald Schwarck, is a former South Lyon city councilman and former South Lyon Community Schools teacher and track coach.

More than two years ago, the couple retired to Mackinack Island, becoming residents of the northern Michigan community.