Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Leah Karp Obituary
Family-Placed Obituary
KARP, Leah Marie Age twenty, of Dayton, passed away Saturday, April 28, 2007. Leah Marie Karp was a young woman loved by her family and friends, and without reservation loved each of the in return. She will be remembered for her beauty, by the humanity she demonstrated in her daily life, by her competitive spirit and by the remarkable way she brought out the best in each of us. Born in Dayton, Leah attended Cline Elementary, Magsig Middle School, and graduated from Centerville High School. Leah danced competitively with the Red Shoes dance team for several years and captained the team in her last year of competition prior to leaving for college. He artistic talents were evident from an early age, and she left many things crafted, with her loved ones. They, and her memory, will be treasured forever. She was in her junior year at Kent State University. Leah majored in Health Services and expected to start a career, marry, and live here. She is survived by parents, Lynette and Robert Karp of Washington Twp, brothers Joshua and Matthew, grandparents Thelma and Stanley Karp also of Washington Twp. and Nan and Mendel Solomon of Scottsdale, AZ. Her aunts, uncles, and cousins occupied a special place in her heart. Connie, Andy, Sarah, Julia and Hannah Vanwagnen; Esther, Jay, Rachel, Evan, and Sarah Weiss; Bette and Larry Leva; Sandra Lambert, Joyce, Howard, and Michelle Stone; Joanne Long, Sharon Karp; Allan, Tiffany, and Sophia Karp; Donna Swerdlow, Elaine and Nick Icove; Lauren and Scott Vines, Peggy and Rik Heller, Danny, Michele and Amy Hochstein. Leah is also survived by the love of her life, Ben Williams. Funeral service will be held Tuesday (TODAY) 2:00 P.M. at Temple Israel 130 Riverside Drive. Karen Bodney officiating. Interment to follow at Riverview Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Humane Society of Greater Dayton, MADD, of the charity of your choice. BRADFORD-CONNELL Y & GLICKLER FUNERAL HOME handling arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sharon Karp
April 28, 2019
I MISS YOU. I THINK OF YOU EVERY DAY. I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER THE WONDERFUL TIMES WE HAD. LOVE YOU SO MUCH.
HEATHER CREAGER
April 28, 2011
Thinking about Leah today....
Heidi Sprowls
May 18, 2008
Leah I am remembering you today and every day. I wonder if you knew how much you were loved.
Aunt Sharon
July 15, 2007
Leah: Tomorrow you would be turning 21 years old. My heart breaks to know that I can not talk to you and see you. My tears will remain forever. LOVE YOU.
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
sarah weiss
May 16, 2007
i mis you so much leah. i will never forget ho when you walk into a room you would just brighten it up. i love you and you always have a special place in my heart. i will never forget your love for everyone and everything
sarah weiss
May 16, 2007
leah i miss you so much and i miss how you could always make a room bright no matter the mood of any body else! i miss you and you will always have a special place in my heart.i love you so much.
gary mcgill
May 15, 2007
We are all deeply saddened by your great loss. Leah was a fine young woman, loved and admired by those who knew her. The world will be a lesser place due to her untimely passing, but her smile and memory will remain in our hearts. God be with you. The McGill family.
Maggie Kvorjak
May 5, 2007
To Josh and family, I'm sorry about this. I heard Leah was the sweetest girl. You're in my prayers always. I hope things get better.
Anne Eadie
May 4, 2007
Leah knew she was my second little sister. She could count on me to bring her flowers at dance competitions and that we would tease each other. She was a beautiful person on the inside and out. I feel very fortunate for having known her. My condolences go out to her family.
Jason Weland
May 4, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Sharon Karp
May 4, 2007
Dearest Bob, Lynette, Joshuea, and Matthew: As Leah's great aunt life for me will be very different now. Leah was the sweetest and nicest young lady. I have so many great memories of visits with the whole family. I LOVE YOU ALL.
amy margolin
May 3, 2007
To Bobby and Lynette, Josh, Matt and Ben
Your sorrow must be nearly unbearable.
This world was blessed with Leah's grace,
light, love and beauty. May her memory guide all of you as you learn to live, someday, with joy again.
Danni Murphy
May 3, 2007
After reading over everything that others have written and hearing the regards and sympathies bestoyed upon your family this week, I am at a loss for words. Leah was all of the things people have described her as thus far, beautiful, warm, caring, bright, talented, and so on. I will cherish my memories of her forever and remember her fondly as an adopted sister of sorts, playing and dancing side by side with my own baby sister! She is and always will be deeply loved and missed by all.
Savanna Daly
May 3, 2007
I am very sorry for your loss, my friend's brother, Andrew Paris, knew Matthew. Also my sister knew Leah as they went to high school together, I send my blessings and again, I'm very sorry for your horrible loss
Tim Dressman
May 3, 2007
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Karp, I returned to my office today to hear the sad news regarding your daughter. Leah was an avid volunteer here at St. Leonard Senior Living Community and, as you know, was planning to do an internship for long term care administration in a couple of weeks. I only got to meet her one time but knew instantly she would brighten up many faces at our community. We were very excited she was coming and are deeply saddened by her passing. Please be assured the St. Leonard family and the Sisters of St. Francis of Sylvania, OH, our sponsors will keep her, you and your family in prayer. Our sincere condolences!
Gretchen Snyder
May 3, 2007
I only met Leah in class this semester, and when I met her I thought to myself "we could be friends". She was so easygoing and had the best laugh. My heart goes out to your family during this difficult time. Please know that I am praying for you.
Brittany Steiger
May 2, 2007
To the Karp family:
My sympathies and heart reach out to you in such a difficult time. I have so many memories from being on the dance team with Leah and watching her grow up. From helping her perfect her red lipstick for stage to babysitting her and the guys. Leah was an amazing dancer and had the most infectious and beautiful spirit. Her energy, warmth and talent will be greatly missed. Although I have not seen her in years, the memories of all the good times still remain. I wish you all the best and your family will be in my thoughts.
Brittany Babb
May 2, 2007
It's so hard to believe that Leah is no longer here. Even though it's been a while since we last talked I still feel like we were always friends. I remember Leah for the witty person that she was and the girl that always lit up the room. She will truly be missed and I hope that the Karp's can find some peace in knowing how many lives Leah touched. I'm very sorry and will deeply miss Leah. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Sarah Nusinow
May 2, 2007
To the Karp family,
Growing up with Leah since pre-school and living with her the past two years at school has given me memories that I will never forget. I am so thankful that she was apart of my life. Her laugh, her smile, and the times we shared together were amazing. She truly brightened a room and warmed peoples hearts. She was never too serious (except when she needed to be) and it always made me laugh. I loved living with her and knowing her. I loved our Saturday trips to the mall and Panera. I honestly could go on for days about everything we experienced together and all the fun times we had. She touched my life as she has touched many others and I'm so grateful. If you need any help with things here at Kent please call me. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Marissa Yeakley (Lewis)
May 2, 2007
My deepest sympathies go out to the Karp family. Leah was a wonderful person who will truly be missed. I had not seen Leah in years, but think of her often. She was a beautiful dancer with an infectious smile. Having danced with Leah for years, there are many songs that come on the radio that make my sister and I think of Leah and smile. There are even things that we do on a day-to-day basis that remind us of Leah; such as putting my hair up with hairspray, something Leah had to learn the hard way. I remember one time at a competition she didn't have hairspray so she used mouse...not the same effect. Leah was prematurely gray that day! I share this story with you, her family, in hopes that a smile will appear on your face for even a moment. Please know that your daughter lights up my face often in even the most routine of days. That is how special she was to everyone that knew her. She will be truly missed.
Joan Johnson
May 2, 2007
Bob, Lynette, Josh, Matt,
Please know that all of us are shocked and saddened by your loss. When we send our children away to school we always imagine the times they return to share their new adventures. May the memories of Leah, her time with you, bring you comfort and joy. Our hearts go out to you for the terrible loss you have suffered. May your family grow closer than ever.
Tony, Joan, Andrew & Brynne Johnson
Amanda Kotrlik
May 2, 2007
My deepest regards go out to Leahs family during this hard time. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. I had just met Leah this semester and even though I only knew her for a small amount of time I could already tell what an amazing person she was. I had class with her this semester and then was very happy when she came and started working with me at Rosies. I remember her first day of work when I trained her. She will be greatly missed by many.
Jessica Lewis
May 2, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time. I will always treasure the many wonderful memories I have of Leah. She was an amazing person with a beautiful smile and an infectious laugh and she will be dearly missed.
Andi Murphy
May 2, 2007
Bob, Lynette, Josh, Matthew, and of course, Leah:
It’s been years since I’ve had the privilege to see Leah, and even longer since I’ve seen the rest of you. I have so many warm memories spent in your home which you so graciously opened up to me… My jaw dropped when I heard the news, and I cannot think of another instance in my life where I have experienced such utter shock. I’ve been somewhat of a wreck inside my head lately, and I have yet to shake this disbelief. Yet yesterday, for the first time since, I thought of something she would most definitely find worthy of a good laugh, and that’s when I realized I can’t help but smile. After all, my memories of growing up are filled with Leah... she was so dear a friend to me. I’ve been feeling the need to share these great times with you, so please pardon the lack of brevity in advance.
Leah and I were attached at the hip, to say the least- she was my partner in crime. From our long walks to Dairy Queen for blizzards we would never even finish, to our adventures in Myrtle Beach and beyond, we shared a common annoyance for both The Spice Girls and her younger brothers (don’t worry guys, this certainly has changed), as well as a love for dancing and living life to its fullest; our personalities fit to a T. We were young, but I think it’s safe to say we had a firm grasp on what friendship really was, and I’ve yet to find such a connection with another person, I’ve yet to come across anyone quite like her. Looking back, Leah had this distinct personality, and when we talked recently, it was obvious nothing had changed. It never mattered what city I lived in, Leah was always right there by my side to help me laugh for hours on end. It’s an amazing feeling; to think that after all these years I still feel just as close to her as I always did. Leah has grown into such a beautiful person, whom I am truly honored to have known and been able to spend such a great portion of my life with.
Nonetheless, I can’t help but wish I could see her just once more! To dance “Ride the Train” and “Billy the Kid” and “Mission Impossible”. To have weekly slumber parties the night before a rigorous Saturday with the Red Shoes Dance Team. To rehearse and see Leah laughing in her black one piece body suit, long-sleeves, white socks and all. To own matching green and purple transparent purses and bracelets for Myrtle Beach. To roll our socks, no, every piece of clothing, in order to practice efficient packing for the trip to Myrtle Beach. To eat pasta in hotel rooms the night before competitions, and to roll down the grassy lawns when we were told to rest. To sit next to her at the Spaghetti Factory and scoop our tomato chunks into the communal tomato-chunk-bowl together. To have her hold my hand the first time I passed by Murphy’s cage. To be able to pass Murphy’s cage all on my own in order to go sit side by side with Leah and eat Spaghetti-O’s for my first, and last, time. To go that extra mile and choreograph the least phenomenal dance to the Spice Girls, stuff pillows under our dresses, and forget to wear shorts underneath during the private performance in front of our team. To sit in that purple room of hers for hours and attempt a superb application of the most hideous fake nails you have ever seen. To have someone to spend time with when a certain sister of mine was getting into trouble all her own. To have someone to cry with right up to the very last second before I moved away down South. To write to each other via paper and pen through the years. To be able to visit her every time I came up, as well as to see her scream and cry in order to visit me in return. To visit her at her grandparents’ home in Arizona a few years back. To do cartwheels into the pool, watch videos of her Bat Mitzvah, to wash fruit together, paint rocks, play cards with polar bears on them, do each other’s hair, go to Target together, and so much more. To wear matching heart necklaces engraved with “BEST FRIENDS”. I would give the world to do all of these things… just one last time.
I don’t need to tell you what kind of a person Leah was; she made it so clear in her every move. She loved each and every one of you with everything in her. Recently we were able to catch up, and she spoke so highly of every single one of you individually, she was so proud to be a part of such a beautiful loving family. Please know that she would not have had it any other way. Danni and I talked today about the services, and I need you to know that my heart has always been with you over the years in its entirety, especially these past few days. I will continue to keep you in my thoughts day in and day out for the rest of my life. You will never know how much your daughter meant to me, I cannot even begin to explain the bond I shared with her, yet I refuse to let the memories stop here. I will be on the first flight to Ohio as soon as I can, standing outside knocking on your door.
Oh Leah. I keep going through this list in my head, of all my friends that have passed, and when I get to yours, it just doesn’t seem right. Your name was never supposed to be on that list, as you were someone I intended to keep in close contact with throughout my life, no matter how hectic things got. We’ve made it this far, and rest assured I will never forget all that you were as a person, and all that you still are to me. Expect frequent thoughts and letters and visits from me. I was unable to make it back out to Ohio to say goodbye in person, the thought of which breaks my heart to pieces… I was very much looking forward to being able to see you sometime soon, and to start up right where we left off. Although I will never get that chance, I will forever hold you close to my heart, and each time I laugh so hard I can’t breathe, it will be for you. Thank you for everything… I love you Leah.
I love you all.
Joe and Deb Westendorf
May 1, 2007
Lynette and Bob<
We were heartbroken when we heard about Leah. Our prayers are with you and your family. It is such a tragic loss. We will miss Leah beautiful smile and wave whenever she drove by.
Rachael Lemberg
May 1, 2007
Bob and Lynette: Although we haven't seen each other for many years, it seems like yesterday that Leah was toddling around Temple Beth Or. My daughter was Leah's Sunday School aide. I worked with Bobby at L/N. My prayers and thoughts are with you today and the days ahead. May Leah's spirit lend you strength for your tomorrows. Rachael Holstine Lemberg
Michele Butcher
May 1, 2007
Leah was a friend of our son at CHS and we always enjoyed her company. She was a positive and truly delightful person. We were shocked and deeply saddened to hear the tragic news. We pray that you will find strength and comfort as you sift through precious memories of your beloved daughter and sister.
Pam Dunsky
May 1, 2007
Bob and Lynette, I am so sorry to hear about Leah. It has been years since Bob and I worked together at LexisNexis. I remember meeting Leah when she was just a little girl and hearing all the stories that Bob would share with us about her. My heart goes out to you and your family for your tragic loss. She was part of a special family and from all the notes here that appears to have been reflected in who she was. You are in my thoughts and prayers. My sincerest condolences.
Lisa Renslow
May 1, 2007
Dear Matt- I am so incredibly sorry for the loss of your sister. I hope that you know that your sister is a guardian angel watching over you from heaven. I wish that I could say something to comfort you and make you feel better but I know that is not possible. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers, you and your family. love your friend, and bandmate Lisa Renslow
James & Susan Jasinski
May 1, 2007
We were so saddened to learn of Leah's passing. She was a beautiful, bright and personable girl and a wonderful friend to Lindsey. She was always welcome and a joy to have in our home. We grieve with you.
Tillie Ranich
May 1, 2007
We are deeply saddened by your loss. Our deepest sympathy goes out to the Karp family. Leah's laugh and joyful zest for life will never be forgotten by those she touched. May loving memories help to lessen the pain.
Julia Lawner
May 1, 2007
Lynette,Bobby,Joshua and Matthew,
Words can express my sorrow at the news of Leah's death. I only knew Leah in passing at Temple but her love for life shined in her smile. I pray you find strength in each other,in your family, in your friends and in God's grace.
Beth and Bruce Groene
May 1, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this time. I always heard wonderful storied of Leah from my parents. Her spirit and memory will live on in many!
Amy Diamond
May 1, 2007
Bobby and Lynette, I am beyond sorry for your loss. This seems like an impossibility. I heard wonderful things about Leah through your Mom and Dad to my mom and dad and I could tell she was a truly special and wonderful young woman. My thoughts are with you and all of your family at this time.
Jody Lapine
May 1, 2007
As members of our Temple family you are in our thoughts and prayers. My daughter, Nikki, knew Leah and we know Weisses and Thelma. There are no words to express the deepness of the sorrow we feel for your loss, but please know that your wonderful daughter will never be forgotten by so many who loved and cherished her.
Ilissa Goldberg Eiferman
May 1, 2007
I was so saddened to hear of your loss. I remember Leah as a beautiful little young girl (I believe I was her day camp counselor) and it sounds like she grew into a beautiful young woman. My deepest sympathies go out to her family and friends.
Annie Steele (Davis)
May 1, 2007
Words can't express my sorrow. Watching Leah grow up as her captain on the dance team was such a delight. Even though it's been a long time, I still can remember how special she was. My heart goes out to her family and our family of the Red Shoes Dance Team...I love you all!
Annie Steele (Davis)
May 1, 2007
Words can't even express my sorrow. Watching Leah as a young dancer was such a delight. Although it's been a long time, I can still remember how special she was. Being the captain of the dance team was so special because of people like her. She will be greatly missed. My heart goes out to her family and our family of the Red Shoes Dance Team. I love you all!
Brenda & Cary Noble
May 1, 2007
Brenden (Wynn) called yesterday to tell us about Leah. Like everyone, we are shocked by the news. Our hearts go out to the family and friends. We loved getting to know Leah when the kids danced together. Leah could "light up a room" with her smile, bright eyes, talent and wonderful personality. We are so very sorry for your loss and that Leah's life ended at such a young age. She touched the hearts of many, and will always be remembered. Please take special care of yourselves.
Amanda Zazycki
May 1, 2007
I am truly saddened to hear this news about Leah. I am still in shock, as I know most people still are. Leah was the light that lit up our advisory every morning. She will truly be missed. My prayers and thoughts will be with the family, friends, and Ben during this difficult time.
Kendall Knapp
May 1, 2007
Leah it is impossible to believe that impish fourth grader that I called my best friend is no longer laughing and flashing that mischevious grin somewhere here on this earth. I know your joyous spirit will be a part of all of us always and I thank you for all the wonderful memories.
Barb and Don Eadie
May 1, 2007
Leah will always a special place in our hearts and with so many wonderful memories. We will always remember her smile, her laugh and her dancing. To her family you will be in our prayers and no words can express how very sorry we were to learn about Leah's death.
Jennifer & Dennis Horvath
May 1, 2007
Our sincere sympathy to your entire family. Leah attended the same schools as our children which makes this even more sad. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Donna Tinley
May 1, 2007
I met Lynette at Chico's and we always have so much fun. I am saddened at the loss of your daughter. May your strength and support system carry you through these coming days. Your love for her and her memories will help keep her light in your lives.
Mark Loges
May 1, 2007
My prayers and thoughts are with you in your darkest hour. May the heavens shine bright for there is a true angle among the stars. God bless
Ashley Harland
May 1, 2007
Leah and I were classmates at Kent State University. We recently gave a presentation together in our social marketing class. She was smart, driven, and had a great sense of humor. I was shocked and heart broken when I heard the news. She will always have a special place in my heart. My condolences go out to her family and close friends during this hard time. Rest in Peace Leah, you will be dearly missed.
With Love,
Ashley Harland
Natalie & Michael Albert
May 1, 2007
A beautiful soul is now with God. What a wonderful, gracious, talented young woman--a precious daughter. Our most sincere sympathies are with the family.
Heidi Sprowls
May 1, 2007
I am so sad to hear the news. I am still so shocked. Leah was my patient at Centerville Family Dental and I felt like she was more like a friend. Our entire office is saddened by this news. She was one of the most beautiful people inside and out. I am so sorry.
John Bradshaw
May 1, 2007
We were privileged to share in Leah's brilliant mind, gentle nature, zest for life, and extraordinary smile. She was among the elite students in the world prepared to make a major contribution in the health services field. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Robin O'Rourke
May 1, 2007
Bob and Lynette and family,
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Robin, Raven and Roman O'Rourke
Elizabeth Jacobsen
May 1, 2007
I will always remember dancing with Leah, and how much I loved to watch her on stage. She had a grace about her that made her shine. I will never forget her laugh. I send my deepest sympathies to her family and everyone else who loves and admires her.
Megan Anderson
May 1, 2007
My prayers go out to the friends an family of Leah. She always brought life into every room. I remember sitting next to her in spanish for three years and having the best times. Her laugh was so infectious. I will never forget it.
Richard Gruber
May 1, 2007
Hindy & I were not fortunate enough to know Leah in life. But we know her people, Bobby & Lynette, Thelma and Stan. Not only is this a sad day for them, but as a soul influenced by them, clearly, a light has been extinguished in Our World.
The Gruber's
Amber Hahn
May 1, 2007
Leah was a wonderful person and it makes me so sad to hear that she has died. I will never forget her sunny disposition or her beautiful smile. Seeing her smile always put a smile on my face as well. I am really going to miss seeing her in class. My heart goes out to her family and close friends.
Nicole Lord
May 1, 2007
My heart goes out to you and your family. I only knew Leah from work but she was always very sweet and nice with a smile that would light up a room. My prayers are with you.
Brien Hartings
April 30, 2007
Leah was the sweetest, most caring, and joyful person I've met. She touched many lives, mine included. I'm so fortunate to have been able to meet her through dance. She will live forever in our memories and will be missed tremendously.
Corey Allan
April 30, 2007
My thoughts go out to the Karp family... truly sorry for your loss.
Linda Spyridon
April 30, 2007
We are the parents of Nichole Spyridon. Although we did not know Leah, we heard many good things about her from Nichole. Leah gave Nichole many rides to and from Kent State. We just wanted you to know that your family is in our prayers. God bless you all, Linda and Karl Spyridon
Michael Leonard
April 30, 2007
Leah will always be remembered as a girl with such a warm heart. My prayers go out to all those who were touched in some way by Leah. To the Karp family, you will be in my prayers for a long time, she was loved by many.
Lois & Lloyd Kuck
April 30, 2007
Our deepest sympathy to the family. Our hearts are broken at the loss of your beautiful daughter and granddaughter. May you find comfort in precious memories of the beautiful life she shared with you.
Showing 1 - 60 of 60 results
Make a Donation
in Leah Karp's name
How to support Leah's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Leah Karp's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
