Karen Russano

Karen Elaine Obrig Russano passed away peacefully on February 6th in Massapequa, NY at the age of 82. She was born in Mineola, NY, October 26, 1942 to Robert Stokes Obrig and Doris Louise Huus, growing up primarily in Babylon. Karen was a Registered Nurse by profession, graduating from St. Luke's School of Nursing in New York. Later, she earned a degree in women's studies from C.W. Post. Karen was affiliated with the National Organization for Women (NOW) eventually serving as a chapter president. She volunteered at the Long Island Women's Coalition (LIWC) and later became its Executive Director. Under her leadership, the LIWC opened Safe Harbor, the first shelter for battered women and children in Suffolk County. Through the years Karen hosted many 'borders' in her home renting rooms to those who experienced financial, emotional, or other life traumas in an effort to support them on their healing journeys. She was recognized by Newsday in their 'Long Islanders of the Century' series for her efforts supporting women.

Karen was an accomplished sailor, having grown up in a family with a penchant for sailing. With her mother Doris, they became the first mother-daughter duo to sail around Long Island in the Long Island Regatta. Later, she taught her two sons, Christopher and Peter, to sail.

A lifelong pet enthusiast, particularly fond of cats, she adopted many strays throughout her life.

Karen is survived by her siblings Pamela Cunningham, Carl Obrig and Jill Obrig (Stephen Shirak); her sons Christopher (Susan) and Peter (Anjali) Russano; and grandchildren Danny Russano, Dominick Russano, Helena Wissman (Corey), Ariana Russano and Alex Russano.

Family and friends may visit at the Claude R. Boyd-Spencer Funeral Home, 448 W. Main Street, Babylon, NY 11702 on Saturday, February 15th from 3 - 7pm. At 6pm friends and family are welcome to share a few words in remembrance.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions in memory of Karen Russano to the Suffolk County Coalition Against Domestic Violence (SCCADV) or the Americas Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASCPA).

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