Karen E. Walker

Karen E. Walker, 76, of Hollisterville passed away peacefully Tuesday night, December 31, 2024 at Hospice of the Sacred Heart in Dunmore, surrounded by the love of her family. Her beloved husband, David C. Walker preceded her in death on February 1, 2024.

Born March 13, 1948 in Scranton, she was the daughter of the late Raymond and Louise (Kelly) Wetzel.

Karen grew up in Scranton in a large and loving family of nine children. She was a graduate of Cathedral High School in Scranton. When Karen married David and settled in Hollisterville, she readily assumed the role of a farmer's wife. She enjoyed gardening, canning, cleaning, and raising her family. Karen enjoyed traveling with David, especially to Lancaster and various farmer's markets. Karen attended the First Baptist Church of Hollisterville for most of her life.

Karen's love for people extended beyond family, friends, and neighbors. She was a genuine caregiver and confidant to countless people of all ages and all backgrounds. When it came to mothering, Karen was simply the best. She knew how to lay aside whatever task was before her, and just listen and be fully present to anyone who needed encouragement. Many people have expressed that Karen was their best friend. She had a special way of letting you know that you were loved. Because of the impact she has made, Karen Walker will never be forgotten. She truly meant so much to so many. 

Karen is survived by four children: Kendra Wayman, Paul Tonetti, Laura Szymanski (Carl), all of Hollisterville, and Holly Pierce (Del) of Dunmore; three brothers: Edward Wetzel (Mary Ann) of St. Augustine, FL, Brian Wetzel (Kim) of Binghamton, NY, and Kevin Wetzel (Debbie) of Scranton; and a sister: Theresa Haynos of Greenfield Twp; grandchildren: Chynna Walker, Nicole Krautkremer, Maya Sebastian, Trey Wayman, David Walker, Nathaniel Swingle, Alison Swingle, Madisyn Pierce, and Sierra Tonetti; great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; and a large extended family of friends.

She was also preceded in death by three children: Marla Tonetti, David G. Walker, and Amy Walker; two brothers: Ray Wetzel, Ronald Wetzel; and two sisters: Ginger Cascio and Louise Serpico; and her best friend of many years, Debi Barrett.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at 11:00 AM in The Waymart Church, 596 Honesdale Road, Waymart, PA 18472.

Friends and family may visit on Saturday morning from 8:30-11:00 AM in The Waymart Church.

Burial will be private in Hollisterville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Karen's memory to Hospice of the Sacred Heart, 30 E.D. Preate Drive, Suite 108, Moosic, PA 18507.

Arrangements are entrusted to Howell Family Funeral Home, Inc., Edward R. Howell, Funeral Director, 269 Belmont Street, Waymart, PA 18472. www.HowellFamilyFuneralHome.com