Karen A. Sliwa

SPRINGFIELD - Karen Ann Sliwa, 58, passed away on January 18th, 2016 unexpectedly at home in Springfield, MA. Karen was born on April 29th, 1957 in Springfield, MA. She was the daughter of the late Edward A. and Margaret (Peggy) Dee Sliwa. She was a life-time resident and was educated in Springfield and attended Classical High School. Karen worked in the Healthcare Field both as a volunteer and as an employee at Baystate Medical Center until 2006. Karen loved music, singing and expressing her joy in life. Karen was a teacher to so many of her nieces and nephews, enjoying their triumphs and accomplishments. For all whom she loved she was their best cheerleader. She loved water, the sea, sun and swimming in pools. She loved sending greeting cards, flowers and gifts to those she cared about. She was most happy helping others unselfishly and cherished the love of her family and friends. We remember one of Karen's favored inspirational quotes that reflects who she was: “They may forget what you said... but they will never forget how you made them feel.” Karen was preceded in death by her parents Edward A. and Margaret Sliwa, her sisters Linda LaFleur Morin (5/11) and Mari Ellen Ely (4/13). Karen is survived by her brother Andrew E. Sliwa (Kathleen) of Monson/Springfield. She also leaves behind her much loved nieces and nephews: Daniel Ely, Jeremy and Michael Gervais, Thomas, Christine, Emily and Connor Sliwa. Close to her heart were the Budlong Family, Edward Murphy, Nancy Shaver Lyman, Linda Ely, Jamie Disley, Kevin Carlson, and the entire Morin family. Visitation will be held at New England Funeral & Cremation Center, LLC 25 Mill Street, Springfield, MA from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM on January 30th, 2016, with a memorial service at 11AM. Burial will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 421 Tinkham Road, Springfield, MA. Memorial contributions may be made in Karen's memory to: The Children’s Miracle Network through Baystate Children’s Hospital, Springfield MA. For more details, visit www.nefcc.net We invite you to send a message of condolence to the Sliwa family at www.nefcc.net

Karen A. Sliwa

April 29, 1957 - January 18, 2016