She was born on August 27, 1947, in Keene, NH, the daughter of Cecil and L. Sylvia (Valonenen) Rockwell. She grew up in the area and was a graduate of Keene High School. She went on to attend Keene State College and eventually received her Accounting degree from Franklin Pierce College.
Ms. Austin worked for Princess Shoe in Keene for several years and then worked for Markem Corporation for 27 years.
Ms. Austin enjoyed equestrian horse riding in her younger years, but most recently she enjoyed playing in many Texas Holdem tournaments, Bingo with the “Three Musketeers”, consignment shopping, watching Nascar races, crocheting, traveling with friends and family, spending time with family and watching her grandchildren play sports and dances. She was also a member of the Women's Auxiliary at the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Keene.
She is survived by her mother L. Sylvia Valonenen-Rockwell of Saint Cloud, FL; sons Tom Ward of Winchester and David Ward of New Hampshire ; daughter Ellen Ward of Keene; her grandchildren Sarah Ward, Felicia Ward, Tom Ward III, Tim Ward, Colleen Ward, Owen Ward, Paeton Ward and John Ward; great grandchildren Jaydon Ward, Lexi Ward and Lillian Ward; her brother Bruce Rockwell of Swanzey; her sister Shirley Rose of Edgewater, FL; many nieces and nephews and her beloved dog Emily.
Services for Ms. Austin will be held at the family’s’ convenience. Fletcher Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 33 Marlboro St., Keene, NH.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made in Karen Austin’s name to The American Diabetes Association, 330 Congress St, 5th Floor, Boston, MA 02210.
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