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Karen Wheeler Lawrence
1951 - 2025
Karen Lawrence Obituary
She was born in Rome, NY, the beloved daughter of Russell and Colleen Wheeler of Utica, NY.
She attended St Peter's elementary school and then earned a scholarship to Utica Catholic Academy. After graduating with honors, she briefly attended Syracuse University.
While working in Worcester, MA, she first met her future husband, Derek Lawrence.
Upon marrying in 1976, they lived in Montreal, Canada before moving to Hickory, NC.
There she began what became a lifelong love of animal rescue volunteering and philanthropy.
Upon Derek's retirement in 2004, the couple moved to Tucson. She continued her animal rescue work, volunteering at Pima Animal Care Center for a number of years.
In 2017 she was instrumental in the formation of Desert Paws Mobile Veterinary Care and was involved in the ongoing operation until her death.
Karen was an avid reader and a believer in lifelong learning. She was a confidant to many, and always showed compassion and empathy. She developed relationships where, beyond being just a friend, she was viewed very much as family.
Karen was explicit in her choice of cremation.
Karen and Derek shared their love for each other with 16 dogs over their 49-year marriage and just maybe she has found that Rainbow Bridge to be reunited.
A future celebration of her life is being planned for the new year, but in the meantime friends and loved ones are encouraged to do so in their own way.
Memories and Condolences
for Karen Lawrence
16 Entries
Matt Omoto
Yesterday
Dear Derek, I am very sorry to learn Karen´s death. My deepest condolences. I am in Vietnam last three years and I hope I can see you sometime in future.
Derek Lawrence
Yesterday
A Life That Touched the World
She moved gently through the world,
never seeking praise,
yet everywhere she went
she left things brighter.
She offered guidance when needed,
comfort when asked,
wisdom when it mattered-
quiet gifts that changed lives.
She loved every creature,
animals drawn to her kindness
as naturally as people were.
A reader, a learner,
she met each day with curiosity
and an open heart.
Though she followed no religion,
the good she gave endures-
in the hearts she shaped,
in the love she left behind.
Derek Lawrence
Yesterday
A Life That Touched the World
She moved gently through the world,
never seeking praise,
yet everywhere she went
she left things brighter.
She offered guidance when needed,
comfort when asked,
wisdom when it mattered-
quiet gifts that changed lives.
She loved every creature,
animals drawn to her kindness
as naturally as people were.
A reader, a learner,
she met each day with curiosity
and an open heart.
Though she followed no religion,
the good she gave endures-
in the hearts she shaped,
in the love she left behind.
Sherri I used to live down the street from Her and her husband
November 19, 2025
I used to live down the street from Her and her husband
Mimi and Otto Szentesi
November 19, 2025
Dear Derek
Otto and I are so very sorry to hear of Karen´s death. She was such a dog lover and looked after many, many of them.
We are sending you a big hug, and hope to see you in Hickory, at some point.
Loads of love. Mimi and Otto
Ian Greveling
November 19, 2025
Derek, I am very sorry to hear of Karen´s passing. I hope the many memories you have after so many years together will bring you comfort and strength. My deepest condolences.
Ian
Peggy Loytty
November 19, 2025
I remember Karen with such fondness and.joy! She always knew just what to say or do to make my day brighter. Eric enjoyed "discussing " everything from religion to politics with her,although I don´t think either ever changed his viewpoint because of their talks. I hope you will come to visit Hickory soon, i would love to visit in person. I send a big hug with lots of love. Peggy Loytty
Marcia Lawrence-Howard
November 19, 2025
I love this poem and decided it was right for my dear sister-in-law Karen.
Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning´s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.
Paul and Marie Martino
November 19, 2025
Dear Derek,
Paul and I are saddened to hear of Karen's passing. We are deeply sorry for your loss and our thoughts are with you. I have to say, thinking of her brought a smile and a fond memory of us meeting and being together. I'm thinking it was in the 80's. It was the first time that I as a spouse had been invited to a Siecor adventure / meeting in Wilmington. We were all staying on Wrightsville Beach, coming and going to the mainland. Karen and I were trying to get out of the hotel or in ( it was a long time ago) and there was some kind of a problem. We ended up laughing at the issue at hand so hard we were crying! She made me feel sooo welcome! I've thought of her often when I was introduced to someone new in Siecor/Corning remembering Karen's joy and kindness to me I tried to extend that to others who were "new". She has a very special place in my memories. Praying for your peace at this time. Take Care, Marie & Paul Martino
Marty Curran
November 19, 2025
Dear Derek,
Sending condolences, thoughts and prayers regarding Karen from the Curran family.
Susan Via
November 18, 2025
We met in 8th grade and became best friends in high school. We shared adventures, misbehavior, and confidences like sisters. Karen was funny, smart, generous and caring. She was there for me in tough times and was a most excellent friend. I will miss her but treasure the memories we made together.
JoAnne & Mike Rolf
November 18, 2025
JoAnne Rolf
November 18, 2025
Was one of the kindest, bravest, most generous women I have ever had the honor of calling friend.
Doris Jubran
November 18, 2025
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Hani & Amal Nassar
November 18, 2025
Karen and Derek have been like family to us and like God parents to our children. Karen's wit and high intelligence guided many of our decisions as we all tackled issues in our daily life. She was meticulous in her approach and unwavering in her decisions. Her love for dogs was pure and selfless, and she devoted her life to making sure that the less fortunate dogs find a loving home, including hers. November 8 will always be remembered with sadness but with a fond remembrance. May her loving soul rest in everlasting peace and her memory be eternal.
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