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Karen Gelzinis Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Karen Gelzinis
Tharnell Farris Ephraim
November 12, 2023
Mrs Gelzinis was a beautiful diamond , she was my 7th and 8th grade teacher at the Mackey Middle School in the south end. I loved her, she was the teacher of children with behavioral problems, I could never understand why she wanted to teach a class like Ours. But she did, and we had the best teacher in Boston Mass..... she believed in everyone who was in her class, she pushed us to do our best and to be the best at whatever we desire to do. We were, and went on to College, some married and started Careers, never forgetting our queen,teacher, friend... and to some a mother Figure. She will always be remembered and the love will alway remain in my heart. Tharnell Farris ... 1983/84......, my breath was taking when I found this out.
Robert and Lynn Mogavero
December 11, 2008
Dear Peter,
Lynn and I wish to express our deepest condolences to you and your family, on the recent passing of your beloved wife, Karen.
Please know that Karen remains forever in our thoughts and prayers, as do you all.
"Earth hath no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal." {St. Thomas More}
Stacy Pomerleau
December 3, 2008
I'd like to offer my condolences to the Gelzinis/Cuddyer family. I did not know Karen but have known her sister in law, Mary Ellen Cuddyer for many years. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Linda Nee-Graham
December 2, 2008
We are sorry for your loss. May you find peace and comfort in your prayers.
The Nee Family
Joanne Dowling
December 2, 2008
Dear Peter, Peter and all the members of Karen’s family,
You are all in our hearts and minds. “Karen’s family.” Is it selfish to ask that we too would like to be thought of as members of Karen’s family? As you know, her circles went well beyond her own loving relatives. We use to think of her as the big sister to the 80+ kids that grew up on Atlantic Street in the 60’s and 70’s. She was a leader, always someone to try to emulate. Who other than Karen had such amazing academic talent, had such perfect penmanship, dressed impeccably and had the ability to do the Russian dance in toe shoes! Karen never cut corners. When given a task, she was committed, whether at St Augustine’s, Emmanuel, Regis, Pober’s. Obviously her own resume speaks for itself as to her role as a Boston teacher as the outpouring of grief from students, colleagues and administrators prove. Karen was always striving for perfection. She set the standards high for the rest of us growing up around her. She was never boastful, always helpful. Karen was a big sister to her own family but also to her “Atlantic Street /Dorchester Heights brothers and sisters.” We will all miss her dearly.
Love,
Joanne, Nancy, Danny, Mary, Clare and Kevin
Dowling, Bondaryk, Kane and Bennett
Kathleen Murphy-Garcia
December 2, 2008
Dear Peter,
When I read the paper this morning and I was shocked. Karen and I attended Emmanuel together and enjoyed many happy times for several years after. Unfortunately, over time we lost touch. She was a wonderful person and friend. I, as well as my husband Ray, were blessed to have her touch our lives, even for such a short time. Karen was a kind, givng, thoughtful individual who saw the best in everyone. She left a lasting impression on everyone she met. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your son.
Kathleen Murphy-Garcia
Medford, MA
ANNE MONTGOMERY
December 2, 2008
I am so sorry for your loss.I often talked with Barbara at work about karen. I work with Barbara at Carney.My deepest sympathy to all of you.
dale halloran attias
December 2, 2008
Peter, I was shocked to pick up the paper and read about Karen. I worked with her at EHS for many years and told her often how I wished my own children could have had her as a teacher. She was so energetic and positive. My thoughts are with you and your family. She was a wonderful person and I am so happy that I had the chance to know her.
Kathy Minehan
December 2, 2008
Peter and Peter , My thoughts and prayers are with you as you mourn the loss of your wife and mother .After reading and hearing others speak of Karen its clear to me that this world has lost an incredible lady and heaven has received a special angel.
Paul cherry
December 2, 2008
My mother called me last night to let me know that Karen had passed away. So many fond memories of Karen from our days living up by the "Heights". When I let my wife Joanne (McGrath) know she said "I remember the day Karen helped you register to vote right by the "Rezzie" and I smiled.
My deepest sympathy to the Gelzinis family also to Mrs. Cuddyer Gerry,Kevin,Joannie,Donald,Jeannie,
Barbara and Robert.
Paul & Joanne Cherry
johnny hurley
December 2, 2008
i am sorry to hear about the loss of your wife and mother.role models such as karen seem to be a diminishing breed but from what i have read, she seems to have made a few herself. i have said a prayer. out of town and not able to make services.
Billy Bell
December 2, 2008
I wish to extend my sincere sympathy to all of the Gelzinis family regarding your loss of Karen. I am sure that she is at peace now resting in heaven. Former Revere City Councillor Billy Bell
Charles Harrington
December 1, 2008
Peter,
I was very sorry to read of the death of your beloved wife, Karen, please accept my deepest sympathy, know that Karen and your family are in my prayers at this most difficult time.
Charlie Harrington (Southie News)
Susan (LaRosa) Ovans
December 1, 2008
When I heard today that Karen had died, my mind's eye flashed back to 1969, when we were high school seniors at St. Augustine's. Karen was always our best and brightest, #1 in our class. She was graceful, witty, and kind, altogether unparalleled. I am so sorry for your loss, but so glad you had your years together.
Cookie Comeau
December 1, 2008
Peter and Peter:
I am assisting John Cooke and his wife, Christine, at their home. John talked fondly and often of his dear cousin, Karen, and the both of you. I knew Karen and 1 of her sisters growing up in the 70s and she was always a kind-hearted person. She will be missed by all for her spirit and determination while facing daunting odds. I, along with the Cooke family, am very sorry for your loss.
Kristine Flaherty & Children
December 1, 2008
We are truly sorry at the loss of your beloved wife & mother. Please know that you will be in our thoughts and prayers throughout this difficult time.
Mary Renda
December 1, 2008
My deepest sympathies for your loss. I read Peter's column faithfully in the Herald and was shocked to learn this news yesterday. May Karen rest in peace and may you be lifted up by the love and care of your friends and family.
Pat Mullane
December 1, 2008
Please know that so many of us (fellow teachers), learned a great deal from Karen about how to best teach math concepts. She was the first to share ideas and materials with her colleagues. She was the best math teacher I had ever had the pleasure to learn from. Her colleagues and many former students were lucky to have her help them to grow and be successful. We will miss her a great deal. With love, Pat Mullane (EHS)
Mrs. Debbie Griffin
December 1, 2008
To Peter, Peter and the Cudyer Family,
I can't tell you how sorry I am for your loss. Karen was a lovely person. Truly, a kind soul, who had such a gentleness to her. Her faith was inspirational. She was and her spirit will continue to be a blessing to all she came in contact with.
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