Karen Gaspard

Karen Mae Gaspard (Ruff, Hester), age 77, formerly of Erie, passed away on August 20^th, at Sciota Community Retirement Home in Columbus, OH, after an extended illness.

She was born in Erie, PA on March 9, 1940, a daughter of the late Edward and Helen Ruff. Affectionately known as “KK” or “Sarge”, Karen was an alumni of Strong Vincent High School and served her country in the U.S. Marine Corps.  She was domestically challenged, but one hell of a career woman. Karen put herself through college and established a career as a Systems Manager in the Cable Television industry. Her accolades include the WBA’s, “Woman of the Year” award. She was a tough cookie with a soft, generous heart, active in many organizations including Rotary and the Chamber of Commerce. She was a den mother and mentor for school children in the “I Know I Can” program. Karen loved to have a good time, sing, play cards and go out on the town. She loved Christmas and had a legendary Santa collection. Her spirit and sass will be missed and fondly remembered. 

In addition to her parents, Karen was preceded in death by her sisters Barbara Ruff, Janice Stover, and Jennifer Emerick; her sister-in-law Jackie Ruff, and brothers-in-law Jim Stover and Phillip Vannucci.

She is survived by her three children, Debé (Cathy) Turnbull, David (Mily) Hester, and Aaron (Becky) Gaspard; her granddaughter, Jeni Lynn Gaspard; her siblings, Lynette Vannucci, Bonnie Ruff, Jim Ruff, Raymond (Sally) Ruff, Gail (Lou) Cilladi, and Edward (Sue) Ruff; and many nieces and nephews.

Friends may call at the Burton Wintergreen Funeral Home, 2532 Norcross Road, Erie, on Wednesday, August 23rd from 4 until 8pm, and attend a service there on Thursday, August 24th at 11:00am. Inurnment will follow at Whispering Pines Cremation Garden.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Humane Society of NWPA, 2407 Zimmerly Road, Erie, PA 16506.  Send condolences at www.Burtonfuneralhome.com.