Karen grew up in Livingston, New Jersey, and graduated from Livingston High School in 1975. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from Hartwick College in 1979. After ten years as a research scientist at UMDNJ, Karen returned to Livingston to raise her two children, Sean and Lisa, while working as a pathologist at Novartis Pharmaceuticals for 25 years.
Karen actively contributed to the Livingston community, serving as chairperson of the Youth Appreciation Week Committee and in addition planning Livingston’s Year 2000 Millennium Celebration. Karen also served as President of the Novartis Chapter of Toastmasters International.
Recently, Karen was an enthusiastic leader in her Fox Hills condominium community in Rockaway, notably within the Women’s Club, Italian Club, Mah Jongg Club, and Gardening Club.
Karen’s lively spirit and relentless pursuit of happiness has had an immeasurable impact on those around her, as she planned countless memorable events and social gatherings to bring joy to the people in her life.
Karen was diagnosed with HER2+ Metastatic Breast cancer in 2002. She courageously battled the aggressive disease for 17 additional years; her success and longevity were a testament to her bravery, strength and her appreciation for life.
A celebration of her life will be held at Quinn Hopping Funeral Home, 145 E Mt. Pleasant Ave, Livingston, NJ 07039 on Saturday, March 16, from 11-2pm.
If you would like to make a donation in her memory, please consider donating to METAvivor, the non-profit dedicated to support for metastatic breast cancer.
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