Daffner, Karen SCHENECTADY Karen Daffner passed away peacefully on January 15, 2021, at the age of 65, from complications due to cancer. She spent the majority of her career teaching physical education and coaching in the Schenectady School District. She was a daughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, friend and mentor to so many. She was committed to her students and spoke of them often, and to her family for whom she loved deeply. She is survived by her father, Leonard; sisters, Robin (Bill Dominelli) and Marci (Jasmelina Pugliese); niece Jessica; nephew Joshua (Kayla Duquette); great-nephews, Nathanyel and Nickolas; and her beloved dog, Madison. We'd like to thank her many friends and neighbors who reached out to support her during this time. Your affection really kept her spirits high. We would also like to thank the staff at Ellis Hospital for their attentive care during her brief illness. Funeral to take place on Monday, January 18. There will be no Shiva due to COVID-19. Donations may be made to Beth Israel Synagogue or the Animal Protective Foundation. To leave a condolence message for the family, please visit levinememorialchapel.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Albany Times Union on Jan. 17, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Karen Daffner

13 Entries

Ronney Rosenberg

January 22, 2021

So sorry to hear and read about Karen's death. My thoughts are with Marci, and all who were close to Karen as you mourn. Ronney Rosenberg

Josh Kinneston

Planted Trees

Barbara and Jim Follain

January 19, 2021

We are neighbors of Karen. We are so sorry to hear of her passing. We often spoke over the fence,since we both had dogs. You and your family will be in our prayers.

Aimee Demarest

January 18, 2021

My heart is broken from the loss of such a wonderful friend and confidant. God bless her family and friends who are devastated by this loss.

Richard and Ray

January 18, 2021

Karen, Sending you lots of Love and Prayers. We will miss you very much. We have so many great and fond memories to cherish, which we will always carry in our hearts. Our sincere condolences to all family members and friends. Love, Richard and Ray

Bob Winchester

January 18, 2021

I first knew Karen when she was a student in Niskayuna High School. She was interested in athletics just as Title IX was beginning to influence women's opportunities to participate in sports. She was determined to be the best competitor and team mate possible then. She went on to teach and coach with those same goals. I always admired how she engaged her students and her teams by striving to put them in the most competitive arenas possible. She was a wonderful friend, a devoted teacher and coach. She made a difference in every life that she touched. I send my deepest condolences to each member of her family.

Rhonda Harper- Durfee

January 17, 2021

I am saddened to hear of her passing. Ms. Daffner was my 8th grade gym teacher and I loved her classes because she was so tough! She will be missed.

Heather Armour

January 17, 2021

In 8th grade u was my gym teacher you always told me to stand on the floor I don't have to play if I don't want to you said you'll pass me for gym class for effort ... U told me about skipping ur classes and other classes that's not good

Sandra Verdrager Smith

January 17, 2021

I heard today through a mutual friend of Karen's passing. As a fellow Schenectady teacher I would like to offer my heartfelt condolences to the family. She truly embodied the qualities of a good human being and a good teacher. May she rest in peace.

Karena Caraballo

January 17, 2021

You will truly be missed. Coach Daffner was an inspiration to many. May you RIP

Elizabeth Farr

January 17, 2021

Karen and I golfed together in a league for the past few years. We've had lots of fun and many laughs. May she rest in peace.

Karrie Rutecki / Tammy Brower

Planted Trees

Maribeth Perone

January 17, 2021

I wanted you Karen's family know how sorry I am for you loss. Karen was a wonderful person. She made me laugh all the time.

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