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Karen O'Connor Obituary

Karen Ruth O?Connor NORFOLK - Death visited Karen Ruth O?Connor last Friday, March 18, 2011. It and its agent, cancer, exacted its toll; but have not achieved final victory. Karen waits in the arms of her God for the death of death and a return to her family and those others who love her so. Karen O?Connor is the only daughter of Gertrude and Henry, the wife of James, and the mother of Krista and Katharine. Her sons-in-law are Brendan and Brian, and her grandchildren are Gabrielle, Emma, and soon-to-be-born Jacob. Grief surrounds them all, but the Cross and the intuitive inevitability of the Resurrection sustain them. Karen O?Connor?s funeral and committal will be held in Allentown, Pa., Saturday, March 26. An additional memorial service and reception will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, March 31, at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 6001 Granby St., Norfolk, VA 23505, where Karen was a longtime member and music teacher. If you wish to memorialize her, in lieu of flowers send your gift to Trinity church or school to support its ministry. Karen would like that.

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

Published by The Virginian-Pilot on Mar. 23, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
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Jordan Bradley

April 1, 2011

Mrs. O'Connor - You were special. Even though I was not a talent on the piano, I looked forward to my lessons with you. I couldn't quit because I enjoyed learning with you. Over the many years after I stopped with the piano lessens, I LOVED you for your sense of humor. The best memories I have are of you and Lee together. What an awesome team! And those memories will never fade. My thoughts and prayers are with your doughters and Jim. Amazing family. Even though you left us way too soon, I look forward to seeing your spirit and wit live on through your family.

William McGlinn

March 25, 2011

Karen had a twinkle in her eye and a heart full of wonder that she shared with all of us who were blessed enough to have know her through her daughter Kate. To know that you are loved and to be able to have loved is one of the truly remarkable parts of having lived and she had and gave immeasurably in this regard. The O'Connors have shared this wonderful life with us and we hold you all close at heart. Bill McGlinn and Mark Mascolini (Allentown, PA)

Ivana DiNini

March 25, 2011

Dear Family, Karen is cherished by so many of us. I am honored to be among her friends who love her so much. She was a wonderful teacher of music,family life,friendship and so much more. Even in her illness she has taught me. Everyday I have reminders of her in my life. Blessings and peace to Pastor, Krista, Katie and their families.

Trevor Gwin

March 24, 2011

O'Connor Family,
You are in my hearts and prayers, and have been for some time. Karen taught me piano lessons for 10 years, and I always looked forward to coming to her house - whether I had practiced enough or not! I'm thankful for her kindness, and her gift of music that she eagerly share with me. I will remember her when I play. God be with you all.

Frank and Tracey Steslow

March 24, 2011

Dear Kate and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time and always.

Judy Belaires

March 24, 2011

Karen's family loved her so much and I know why. She was a sweet, bubbly, kind person. She and her husband raised two wonderful daughters. I know she was so proud of them and their families. God bless them all.

Lisa Colvin

March 23, 2011

We loved Karen, and I will be eternally grateful for the music she brought to my life, and for loving my children.

Lisa Colvin

March 23, 2011

Karen was a jewel to our family. Her music lives on in many hearts and lives. She is missed and my heart goes out to her beautiful family, I love you guys and miss you.

Rachel Beasley

March 23, 2011

I am heartbroken to hear of Mrs. O’Connor’s passing. She will forever leave an imprint on my heart as my music teacher, piano teacher, and overall life teacher. -Rachel (Sheldahl) Beasley

Dennis and Christine Brown

March 23, 2011

Dear Family,

We are deeply saddened to learn of Mrs. O'Connor's passing and our heartfelt sympathy and condolences go out to each of you.

She has indeed fought the good fight and our faith teaches us that she is with our LORD now at peace and without pain. May you all be comforted by the love she had for you and I pray that your celebration of her life will carry you through this most difficult time and in the days to come. May GOD bless you all.

March 23, 2011

Dear family members,
May the father of tender mercies, and the God of all comfort be with the entire family during this time of great grief.
With deepest sympathy

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