Karen Gottschalk Remembered for Her Kindness and Dedication to Family
Karen Gottschalk, a devoted wife, mother, and community member, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love and generosity.
Support US and Our Work, Donate to US
Born in Youngstown, Ohio, to the late Paul and Alberta Kiser, Karen was a proud graduate and lifelong supporter of The Ohio State University. It was there that she met her future husband, Gary Gottschalk, with whom she built a loving home and raised three daughters.
Throughout her career, Karen worked as a bookkeeper at K-Mart before transitioning into retail banking. In addition to her professional life, she had a passion for crafting, often creating beautiful handmade cards to bring joy to children at Akron Children’s Hospital. Known for her warmth and generosity, Karen and Gary fostered a home where everyone was treated like family.
Karen was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Gary, as well as her parents and in-laws, Glenn and Florence Gottschalk. She is survived by her daughters Robin (Al) Fleming, Paula (Steven) Tharp, and Megan Gottschalk; honorary children Pamela and William Brown; brother Philip (Robyn) Kiser; brothers-in-law Glenn (Susan) and Gregory (Roberta) Gottschalk; and grandchildren Sasha & Genia Fleming, Josie & Bailey Musci, and Steven Jr, Cody, Courtney, and Chad Tharp. She will also be dearly missed by her nieces, nephews, and many close friends.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, March 16, from 1:00 to 3:00 PM at Anthony Funeral Home – Akron Chapel, 1990 S. Main St., Akron, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Akron Children’s Hospital at [akronchildrens org]
