Karen Thornell passed away on March 2, after a very private battle with cancer.  She is survived by her husband of 48 years, Gerald Thornell, her son John Thornell, wife Jennifer and their three children, daughter Kellie, husband Dan Crete and their two children, and son, Christopher Thornell, wife Stephanie and their five children.

Karen also leaves a sister, Kay Isaly Wrobel, of Young Harris, GA.

Karen was born on January 14, 1943 in Mansfield, Ohio.  Her family later moved to Sarasota, Florida.  Strong and athletic in high school, she was a high flyer in the Sailor Circus and in college at Florida State University.  Years later she would marry and settle in Marion where she remained until her death.

She loved her small town. It was a safe place to raise her children and she treasured the deep friendships she had. Karen was a daily fixture in town. Checking the mail… Stopping in at the General Store… She always had a friendly face and offered an open “hello” with a genuine concern for the well being of others.

If she promised to do something for you, it was done and done right.  She could often be found mowing the lawn, raking, playing with her grandchildren or helping a friend or neighbor with a project.

A significant and special place in her early life was Lake George, New York. It remained a special place to return to with friends and family.  She was proud to call herself a Red Sox fan, even making it to spring training games. She also enjoyed watching all New England sports teams including her grandson’s little league games.

Karen worked for many years at Jonathan’s Sprouts and also kept a small bookkeeping business, working with many local organizations including the Sippican Tennis Club. However, she made her most important job her children.

It was important to raise them with good values, encourage them to be the best at whatever they did, develop a strong and honest work ethic, have a respect for the environment and the history of our county.  She later showered her grandchildren with those same lessons.

Those who knew Karen realize the profound loss of this incredibly strong, thoughtful, caring and vibrant person. They will also understand, at Karen’s request, that there will be no services.  Instead, she would want you to take the time to enjoy your life, visit friends, play with your kids, go for a hike, or watch a sunset.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to be made in Karen’s name to Community Nurse and Hospice Care (PO Box 751, Fairhaven, MA 02719) who provided Karen with wonderful care during her final days.

Arrangements are under the care of the Roberts and Sons Funeral Home in Foxborough. For additional information please contact 508-543-5471.  To light a special candle in Karen’s memory please visit the funeral home web site at www.robertsandsonsfuneralhome.com