Karen Lee Watkinson

Karen “Kaug” Lee (Habjanetz) Watkinson, age 74 of Henderson, NV, formerly of Bridgeville, PA, passed away on Sunday, February 15, 2026. Born on April 4, 1951, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Carol (Joest) Habjanetz. Karen was married to the love of her life and best friend Gene P. Watkinson on June 30, 2000.

Karen is survived by her husband Gene along with her loving sisters Kathy (Johnny, D.) Sugar and Patty (Denis) Mahony, and brothers Robert and John (Luann) Habjanetz. Brother-in-law Barry (Jean) Watkinson. Step children Bridgette (John, D.) Butcher and Jennifer (Kirk) Taylor and four step grandchildren, Logan Butcher, Breanna LaMendola, Justin and Hailey Taylor. Close relatives also include: two nephews, Ryan and Colin Mahony, four nieces, Tricia (Jonathan) Sanders, Lisa (John) Peel, Michelle (Craig) Jaenicke and Jennifer (Frankie) Pattinato, four great nephews, Cameron “Cam” Peel, Lucas Sanders, Frankie and Vinnie Pattinato and five great nieces, Karoline (Joey) Fritsch, Hailey, Lexi, and Taylor Jaenicke and Mia Pattinato.

Kaug and her great nephew, Cam, who was like a son to her, shared a bond that words can’t describe. They shared laughter, tears, trust, and unspoken love. Countless phone calls about anything and everything. A friendship filled with warmth, caring, and strong connection. No matter if they were side by side or miles apart, they were forever connected by heart.

Karen will always be remembered for her never-ending love for Disney, playing the slots, and her heart of gold. Kaug shared kindness, strength, courage, and love so generously with everyone she met. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Burial and viewing will be private, on March 2, at Palm Boulder Highway Mortuary, Henderson, NV. A Celebration of Life will be held in Kaug’s honor on April 4, which is also her 75th birthday, in Bridgeville, PA.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to breast cancer research in Karen’s name.