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Karen McDowell Obituary
Karen was a beloved mother and grandmother who diligently devoted much of her life to raising her three boys and caring for her parents as they aged. She adored her sons and her grandchildren. She was the ultimate caretaker and the epitome of a nurturer. Karen was endlessly kind, compassionate, empathetic, and loving, always seeking to comfort those around her. Karen always put others first.
She was open-minded and curious, always pondering and discussing what else might be out there to discover. She loved nature and delighted in a beautiful garden or a flower arrangement. She had a deep love and appreciation for animals, including and especially her numerous pets and grand-pets. She had a wonderful and silly sense of humor as well as a penchant for coining the best nicknames. Karen had deeply held virtues and loved discussing her strong social and political views. Despite her convictions, she was incredibly forgiving and understanding of others, ultimately wanting the best for the world around her.
Karen faced unthinkable health challenges in her later years, but she admirably and valiantly fought them while maintaining her sense of humor and a positive, hopeful spirit.
Karen is survived by her sons, Joseph McDowell and his wife Sara McDowell; Thomas A. McDowell and his partner Kaitlyn Regan; Jack McDowell and his wife Hope Hutchings; and her grandchildren, Gio Scheff-Mota, Milena McDowell, and Maxina McDowell. She was predeceased by her parents, Joseph Dorgan and Wilma Jeanne (Martin) Dorgan, and sister, Pamela Dorgan Voight.
Memorial services will be scheduled at a later date for Spring 2026. There are no calling hours. To share memories or express condolences online, please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Karen McDowell
Sue Henry Binge
November 5, 2025
Friends since 6th grade, Mercy classmates and co-workers as teenagers at Liggetts Pharmacy. We made milkshakes and hot fudge sundaes at the lunch counter! Karen was known for her long, black, beautiful hair. I was fortunate to reconnect with her this past year. My thoughts and condolences to her family and friends. Rest in peace Karen.
Mercy High School
November 3, 2025
On behalf of the Mercy High School community, we offer our deepest sympathy to the family, friends, and classmates of Karen, alumna of the Class of 1975. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. We are very sorry for your loss and will always remember Karen in our Circle of Mercy.
In Memoriam: https://conta.cc/47kBmTM
Nancy Geromin
November 1, 2025
Deepest Sympathy in your Trenendous Loss.
I met your Mom during a Medical appt. In our short conversation ,she encouraged me,as I was nervous about being there. She was my Angel that day. We talked of our Children and grands as we r about the same age.You all are the Lights of her Life.Rest assured she isyour Angel now,looking over all of you.
She had a Loving Warrior Spirit.In that very brief conversation,I was very inspired.
Your Mom and Gramma
is always w/you,she was so very proud of each and every one of you.
God Bless
Ellen Carboni
November 1, 2025
I too knew Karen in high school but it has been recently that we have reconnected with the Mercy Girls. I looked forward to seeing her whether it was for lunch or dinner. I was fortunate enough to make her feel better during her difficult times with giving her a haircut. Rest easy Karen
Sue Nettis
November 1, 2025
I met Karen in our teens when we both attended Mercy High School together.Years after graduation, we reconnected and frequently gathered with other friends from school.They were fun and very uplifting times, even during the difficult days. We always looked forward to those special dates.Your mom was an amazing lady, and I feel privileged to have known her as a friend.Mothers carry their children in their heart and children carry mothers their hearts too.Keep your mom there and carry her memory with you always.She was a wonderful woman, and I am so sorry for your loss.
VERONICA KLEINSCHMIDT
November 1, 2025
To Karen's family,
I am so very sorry to hear of Karen's passing.
She was a kind, thoughtful friend and will be dearly missed.
Sending love and prayers.
Veronica Kleinschmidt
Durham
John & Beverly Kissane
November 1, 2025
Jack, Thomas and Joseph, we stand by you, mourning the passing of your mom. As the grief begins to soften, you must celebrate for being so fortunate to have one of the most superb mothers. Karen was always a real lady. May Mom rest in peace.
Donna Sauve Grisham
November 1, 2025
I went to elementary and high school with this beautiful woman -inside and out! I swear her gorgeous hair flowed past her knees. Her smile, warmth and kindness were just as captivating. My heartfelt sympathy to her sons and all who loved her. Rest in peace dear Karen, you are loved.
John and Beverly Kissane
October 31, 2025
Thinking of you with sympathy and remembering the times we shared so many years ago in the restaurant world. May the love of friends and family bring you comfort and peace.
Laura Kelly Rocha
October 31, 2025
Sorry to read of the passing of your mum and grandmum.
Joe & Jean Dorgan were my Godparents.
Many years ago my parents back yard and The Dorgan’s back yards met in Middletown, CT.
They lived on Dewey Street we lived on Randolph road..
As a small child I remember picnics in The back yards..
I also remember Jean had packasandra ( ? Spelling )growing in the front of their house.
On a very rainy day Jean and my mom ( Peggy) dug quite a bit up and then replanted it at our then -( new house) on Dorothy Drive also in Middletown, CT.
It grew there for many years..
I am sure they all are rejoicing in heaven finally being together again.
Rest in Peace my Christian sister.
Love ,
Laura Kelly Rocha
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