This past Thursday (Aug. 18th) as we waited for Karen's arrival from Franklin to play bridge in Meadville with Rick Klapthor, we all were alarmed that she did not appear.  We shifter partners and attempted to call with no response.  We then contacted her friend Joanne Szymecki who had Karen's brother's number.  He shortly thereafter informed us he found Karen had passed, sitting at her desk playing an online game.

Karen was an elementary school teacher, an avid bridge player (Life Master) who actively supported the game in and around the region.  Karen actually earned her first Gold MasterPoint at the Erie Bridge Club playing in a World-Wide Game.  She was lively, fun to be with, and always put forth a positive attitude.  Weather did not deter her from traveling to play bridge.  She was dedicated to her friends at the table maintaing several close partnerships.  She will be missed.