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Karen Palmer Obituary
Karen B. Palmer, 66, passed away peacefully on Friday May 13. She was the daughter of the late Frank H. Brensinger, Sr., and Lucille (Reinhart) Brensinger. A 1974 graduate of Liberty High School, Karen worked in sales management in California and as a Certified Dental Assistant for over 25 years in the Bethlehem area. She was a life-long active member of Westside Moravian Church.
Karen treasured her family and friends. She is survived by her loving husband of 43 years, Michael; son Christopher of Bethlehem; son Benjamin and his wife Heather of San Jose, CA; three adored grandchildren: Logan, Abigail and Amelia; mother, Lucille Brensinger of Bethlehem; brother Frank (Skip) Brensinger, Jr., and his wife Lois of Bethlehem; nephew John Brensinger of Allentown and niece Amy Brensinger of Bethlehem. Her sister-in-law, Carrie DeYong and daughter, Candice of Tracy, CA; as well as numerous cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
Although she enjoyed the family home at Lake Wallenpaupack, the beach, traveling, and cruise ship vacations, her affiliation in the PA Coalition for Mercury Free and Safe Removal Dentistry was Karen's passion. Karen was a kind hearted, passionate advocate for those whose health had been damaged because of unnecessary dental mercury exposures such as the environment, medicine, vaccines, and veterinary; especially the importance of informed patient consent. This led her to testify before the Food and Drug Administration in 2006, 2010 and 2019. In 2006 these testimonies resulted in a federal lawsuit about mercury poisoning. Karen was featured in the 2007 Norwegian documentary, Mercury Mystery, bringing attention to mercury exposure in dentists, dental assistants, and patients. As a member of the State Department, she spoke in Washington, D.C., in 2012. Karen served as associate producer for the 2015 American documentary, Evidence of Harm. She lectured across the United States and England.
Contributions may be made in Karen's memory to:
-Westside Moravian Church, 402 Third Ave, Bethlehem, PA 18018
- St. Luke's Hospice, 240 Union Station Plaza, Bethlehem, PA 18015
-Allentown Rescue Mission, 355 Hamilton Street, Allentown, PA 18101
-International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology <IAMOT.org>
-Dental Amalgam Mercury Solutions <www.amalgam.org>
A memorial service will be held at West Side Moravian Church, 402 3rd Avenue, Bethlehem, PA 18018, on Friday May 20th.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Karen Palmer
pamela wright
July 3, 2022
Just found out that Karen passed. I'm so sorry for your loss. Karen was a bright spot for me at Woodlands when we were both there together. She was a such a sweet, open, and calm presence with a delightful sense of humor! I think of her often, Light and Love Karen.
Jill Bruckart
May 20, 2022
Karen was such a giving, smiling, generous person. I was privileged to know her in our shared service to the church and to Moravian Open Door. She shared her faith and resolute convictions with all. What an exceptional life. She is missed.
Bruce John
May 19, 2022
I´m so sorry Skip and Mrs Brensinger. Rest In Peace Karen .
Freya Koss
May 19, 2022
Karen was and will always be a deeply loved and treasured personal friend and colleague. Karen's support and courageous, passionate advocacy to end the use of mercury in dentistry has improved and saved lives of patients and dental personnel throughout the world. Karen's spiritual and dynamic legacy will live on with me and all who knew and loved her. Karen Burns, also an injured dental assistant and close friend of Karen's remembers: We had so many great times together, so many great memories. And some accomplishments too. Karen had friends around the world. She was something else, an Angel on this earth!
My heart goes out to Karen's husband Michael, her children and family.
Freya Koss
May 19, 2022
Freya Koss
May 19, 2022
Freya Koss
May 19, 2022
Rebecca (Troiani) Chando
May 18, 2022
I was very sad to hear of Karen's passing. We were best friends in elementary school and middle school, and spent many fun times at her parents lake house. Karen was an advocate for holistic and functional medicine, so when I would run into her, we would talk for the longest time trading advice and stories. I will always remember Karen's contagious laugh and dry humor. What a beautiful women!
Linda Judd Minger
May 16, 2022
I was saddened to hear of Karen's passing. Keeping the family and friends in my prayers. RIP Karen it sounds like you lived an extraordinary life and helped so many others.
Angela Malpedo
May 16, 2022
I was deeply saddened to hear about Karen. I grew up with Chris and Mrs. Palmer was always one of my favorite Moms. She was always so fun! She always had a smile on her face, she made you feel special. I loved whenever I would bump into her at the grocery store. We would always end up chatting for over an hour. Karen was an extraordinary woman who will be deeply missed. Sending love, hugs and prayers to her family. May her memory be eternal.
Stan&Wanda Ramsberger
May 16, 2022
Deepest sympathy to Karen´s family. Knew Karen from Dental office she work at. She was a great girl. Always keep her memories close to you. Stan&Wanda Ramsberger
A grateful citizen
May 16, 2022
Thank you for caring for others. Rest In Peace
A grateful citizen
Mike Palmer
May 15, 2022
The service starts at 11am Friday 5/20
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