Karen Gartner died Monday, March 6, 2017 in St. Lukes Hospital surrounded by family and friends after a brief perfect storm of illnesses. She was the loving wife and best friend of Dr. Scott Garrigan.

The daughter of Frank and Madolyn Gartner, Karen was born in St. Augustine, Florida in 1946. She grew up in Woodbury Heights, New Jersey, after spending early years in Japan and San Diego. Karen earned a bachelor's degree in English Education from Rowan College of New Jersey and a Masters Degree in Library Science at Drexel University.

During her 35-year career in public library service, she served as head reference librarian in the Easton Public Library, Coordinator of Extension Services in the Bethlehem Area Public Library, and Director of the Parkland Community Library. in these roles, she led two library building projects and led four libraries in their conversion from paper card catalogs to digital automation. During and after her library career, Karen was active in promoting public libraries through leadership positions in the Pennsylvania Library Association and the Pennsylvania Citizens for Better Libraries. Her friendships with library colleagues grew and remained some of the closest friendships of her life.

Karen had many interests. She loved visiting art museums, classical and jazz concerts, and plays. She especially enjoyed Pennsylvania Shakespeare productions and frequent Bach at Noon concerts. She loved reading to expand her perspectives and knowledge. Karen found satisfaction in planning and tending her garden. In retirement she added Tai Chi and bird habitat study to her activities.

Karen challenged herself (and us) to be our best. in the 70's, she gave her time to the League of Women Voters, and more recently to support the politics she believed in. She was a strong person, and her friends will remember the sparks of light and good humor with every interaction.

Survivors: Her husband Scott Garrigan of Bethlehem, sister and brother-in-law Toni and Phil Pistun of Rock Hill, SC; sister-in-law Benay Carlino of Lynn, MA; and many nieces, nephews, and grand nieces and grand nephews from Colorado and Minnesota to South Carolina and Washington, DC. Karen was predeceased by older brothers Wayne and Wilson Gartner.

Services: Viewing will be held from 10 - 11AM, Saturday, March 11, 2017 followed by a service at 11AM in the JAMES FUNERAL HOME, Bethlehem. Online condolences at www.jamesfuneralhome.org

Contributions: In lieu of flowers, Karen would prefer that you support Doctors Without Borders, Mariton Wildlife Sanctuary, Bethlehem Area Public Library Children's Room Fund, or the Bach Choir.