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BORN
1954
DIED
2023
Karen McFarland Obituary
Karen was born Jan. 19, 1954, in Jacksonville, Fla., to the late Richard A. Klose Sr. and Beulah (Durling) Klose, of Tonawanda.
She is survived by her husband, Robert McFarland, of Salamanca. She will be missed dearly by her beloved children, Siblea (McFarland) Pangallo of West Seneca and Riley McFarland of Depew, whom she lived each and every day for. She was fortunate to spend her last days at home surrounded by her family and friends, especially her three beautiful granddaughters who brought her such joy even on the worst of her days.
She was a well-respected teacher and coach of the Salamanca City Central School District for 34 years prior to her retirement. Thereafter, she moved to be closer to her children and first granddaughter with plans for travel and spending as much time as possible with her family.
During her many years of coaching and teaching, she affected many lives. She was known for her fun and creative lessons and practices but expected hard work and dedication. She was known by her players and students to be honest, and respectful and had a matter-of-fact way of doing things.
Karen had many long-time friends who will miss her dearly and remember her fondly. Karen donated her body to the University of Buffalo School of Medicine for educational purposes, stating "it is the last lesson I have to teach."
Additionally, she is survived by Richard A. Klose of Tonawanda, Mark and Karen Klose of Fredonia and Craig Klose of Portville, as well as many nieces and nephews.
There will be no funeral services, but a Celebration of Life is being planned for the future.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish can donate to the Susan B. Komen Breast Cancer Fund, which she spent many years raising money for breast cancer research and participating in the 5K race; Buffalo Hospice, which helped her in her last weeks of life; or the Buffalo Zoo, where she was a member and loved going to spend time with her granddaughters.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Karen McFarland
Gregg Easterbrook
July 27, 2024
I knew Karen in high school. Since I left NY 50 years ago, I am behind on hometown news, and just heard.
I can't image anyone who would make a better teacher, or coach, than Karen, She must have touched many lives.
Shelley and Mike Atkins
March 23, 2023
To Bob and family- We are so saddened to hear of Karen´s passing. She was such a great person and friend. One of her best qualities was when she would have a serious conversation with you and before you knew it she would break out into her fabulous infectious laughter! We have so many crazy, hilarious and wonderful memories that we will always cherish... Making Glogg, playing cards, golfing on Sunday nights, and of course all our countless times at The "Wheel" !!! We feel lucky and honored to have known her... RIP KSM ! You are in our thoughts and prayers... Shelley and Mike Atkins
Elizabeth A Zochowski
March 11, 2023
So sorry for your loss Siblea, Riley and Bob. We had lost touch over the years since I moved away. Thoughts and prayers sent to all of you. I have many great memories of Karen and she will be missed by many. You have my sincere sympathy.
The Weldy´s
March 10, 2023
Nanny K we loved you so much and are so thankful for the time we had you in our lives. Austin just adored you....as you did him. You will be missed, give our "helicopter tail" doggy a big hug from us. XOXO
Donna Leblanc and family
March 9, 2023
So sorry for your loss Siblea, Riley and BobHugs thoughts and prayers sent to you and your family! Such great memories Karen was a wonderful person and inspiration!
Rachel Morton (Dulanski)
March 9, 2023
I remember Mrs. McFarland's name on my schedule when I moved up to middle school. My dad had her in class when he was a kid. I remember always seeing a smile on her face no matter how the day was going. She is one of the reasons I am back in the Salamanca district. But instead of a student, I am a teacher.. She will be missed! So glad I got to know such a wonderful woman
Jamie Mcfarlin
March 9, 2023
Have very fond memories of her as a teacher when I was a kid. Thoughts and prayers to all her loved ones.
Terri Remsen
March 9, 2023
This saddens my heart. Karen was one of the best neighbors growing up on Wilson Street. A big part of my childhood was spent at her home. The days when kids actually played outside until dark. She always welcomed us. She was the bright smile at school you´d always be happy to see. Sending my condolences to Bob, Siblea and Riley. She´ll be greatly missed.
Elizabeth Newburg
March 8, 2023
May her memory be eternal...my sincere condolences and prayers to the family. She was a beautiful light to others in this world...I am so glad she was my friend.....may her memories be like stars in the sky....
Michael DuPont
March 8, 2023
Oh, my heart is sad. Such a wonderful woman. I'm glad she isn't suffering anymore. Praying for you Siblea, Riley, and Bob.
Dick Heidrick
March 8, 2023
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. I´ll forever remember those long ago days of fun and adventure. Thoughts and prayers to Bob and family.
Kathleen stevens
March 8, 2023
I remember her fondly at Salamanca High and always respected her advice and honesty. My heart goes out to the family.
Dawn Barczak Hogan
March 8, 2023
To Karen and her family,
My family sends our condolences to you. I knew you most my entire life, and were even neighbors on Wilson st.
I can relate to losing a mother to cancer. I pray for peace in your hearts during this time.
Riley and Siblea find comfort in your memories of your sweet and very strong Mama.
Dawn Barczak Hogan
Angel Wyatt
March 8, 2023
I´m sad to read this. She was an amazing gym teacher while I was growing up. She made gym fun for me. Gym snake! Blessings to her friends and family.
Wendy manning
March 7, 2023
Thoughts and prayers to her family in this time great women !
Kevin Kilmurray
March 7, 2023
Bob I am so sorry for your loss.
Jake
March 7, 2023
Sorry for your loss. The Hagers
Christina (Arena) Martens
March 7, 2023
We are deeply saddened to hear of Karen´s passing. She was a wonderful woman and an amazing part of the community for years. She was always kind that is how I remember her. Riley, Siblea and Bob we are very sorry for your loss. Praying for strength
-Christina (Arena) Martens
Pete & Judy Furlong
March 7, 2023
Siblea and Riley and Bob - So sorry to hear about Karen. She was a good neighbor in Salamanca. Pete & Judy Furlong
Patti Furlong
March 7, 2023
Siblea and Riley, I am so sorry to hear this sad news about your mom. She surely loved you two and her grand babies.
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