HERNANDEZ, Karen Cerks
61, passed peacefully April 15, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. Karen grew up with loving parents, Joe and Sophie, in South Bend, Indiana. She graduated from St. Mary's Academy in 1974 and then went to Purdue University. After her parents retired to Ft. Myers, Florida, Karen moved to Tampa. For many years, Karen worked in the IT project management industry for AT&T and IBM where she succeeded as a Director of Project Management in several business units, and made several close and long-term friendships with her colleagues over the years. Karen enjoyed cheering on the Fighting Irish, boating, traveling in the RV, and visiting new countries whether for work or pleasure. But Karen enjoyed entertaining for others more than anything else. Karen lived life to the fullest, and loved all holidays. She celebrated Christmas extravagantly, and loved hosting large gatherings. Karen played the organ and guitar, and was an amateur photographer for many years. She loved to sing along to any Frank Sinatra or Bing Crosby song. Karen thought of her closest girlfriends as her sisters, and her daughter's closest friends as her other daughters. She was a "sister" and "second mom" to many - and is survived by her daughter, Shelly McClellan (Seth); beloved granddog, Slugger; cousins, Beverly LaFreniere (Dan) and Jim Cerks (Lynn).
A memorial service and celebration of Karen's life will be held Saturday, April 21, 2018 at 11 am (visitation beginning at 10 am) at Brewer & Sons Funeral Home, 3328 S. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa, Florida 33629. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Melech Hospice House - Lifepath Hospice.
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6 Entries
Can't believe it's been 5 years. We miss you.
Diane C Griffin
April 13, 2023
Was so saddened to see this in the paper. I worked with her at Peoples Gas Systems and enjoyed knowing her. Definitely , you are all in my prayers.
Diane Griffin
April 25, 2018
Shelly, Our deepest sympathies on the passing of your Mom and best friend. You and Seth have been in our prayers all week and we heard that Karen's ceremony was beautiful. Your Mom was a special lady and we will remember the goods times we had with her at your beautiful wedding.
God Bless You,
Nancy and Chris Cable
Nancy Cable
April 22, 2018
Shelly, your Mom and I worked together at AT&T and IBM I considered her a wonderful friend. She was so very proud of you and spoke of you so often. I will miss my friend and her quick wit and her ability to always make me laugh. My deepest sympathies to you and your family. God Bless
Vicki DeMarco
Vicki DeMarco
April 21, 2018
Shelly, I worked with your Mom at AT&T. She was a mentor, confidant and overall great lady. She was one of the best managers I knew. I shall miss her. Please take care and know that many of us at AT&T thoroughly enjoyed her.
Deb Schalge
April 19, 2018
Shelly, we've never met, but your Mom and I were very close during high school. I am so very sorry to hear of her passing. My prayers go out to you.
Fran Grix Fahey
Fran Fahey
April 19, 2018
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Funeral services provided by:
Brewer & Sons Funeral Homes - Tampa Chapel3328 S. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa, FL 33629
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