Karen Elizabeth King, age 56, died unexpectedly on Monday, July 2, 2012 shortly after her hospital admission in Greenville, N.C. She had lived in Greenville for the past nine years moving there from Erie. Born on April 21, 1956 in Erie, Karen was a daughter of the late Ray King and Betty Extein King. A graduate of Cambridge Springs High School in the Class of '74, Karen attended Villa Maria College in Erie from where she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1978 becoming a registered nurse. While living in Erie she was employed in various health services at Hamot Medical Center, Pleasant Ridge Manor - West, Hamot Behavioral Health and Integrated Health Services, of Pittsburgh. In her chosen profession, Karen selflessly helped many people both in her career and in her personal acquaintances. She loved animals, especially a dog named 'Zippie'. She had an extensive knowledge of country music and it's history and was particularly skilled at playing Trivial Pursuit, seldom being defeated. Her warmth and sense of humor will be missed by all. Karen leaves behind to mourn her loss two sisters - Patricia Lasher and her husband, Darel of Venango and Ann Chapman of Franklin; her companion and close friend - Valerie Swaney and friend - Shawn Swaney; five nieces - Amy Kozalla and her husband, Dan of Saegertown; Andrea Webb and her husband, Chris of Venango; Elizabeth Chapman of Denver, Colo.; Allison Lasher and her fiancée, Brandon of Woodcock; and Alexis Lasher of Venango; a great niece - Kaitlyn Kozalla; two nephews - David Chapman and Michael Chapman; and her God mother - Gloria Rorke of Missoula, Mont. Included also is a special dog, Chester. Karen does not leave us alone, she takes a part of our hearts with her. Friends may call at the Van Matre Family Funeral Home in Cambridge Springs on Saturday from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Funeral services will begin at 2:30 p.m. with Reverend Temple Jarrell, associate pastor of New Beginnings Church of God in Meadville officiating. Interment will be in Mitchell Cemetery. To send condolences please visit www.vanmatrefuneralhome.com
Published in the Erie Times-News from July 6 to July 7, 2012
