Karen E. Schwarz

It is with great sadness that we share news of the passing of our mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt, Karen Elaine Walters Schwarz. Karen passed away peacefully in the comfort of her Madison home on November 22nd, 2023, surrounded by her loving family and friends after celebrating her 80th birthday this year.

She was predeceased by the love of her life, husband, Bernard Schwarz, in 2001, and her parents, Stephanie and Edward Walters.

Karen is survived by two devoted sons and their wives: Peter Edward Schwarz and his wife Belkis of Madison, CT, and Matthew Jon Schwarz and his wife Ali of Studio City, CA, grandchildren: Daniel and Stefan Schwarz of Madison, and Tessa Schwarz of Studio City. She also is survived by her much loved sister: Marlene Dolan, of Rochester, VT, niece: Catherine Dolan, of Oxford, England., nephew: Mark Dolan, of Kinnelon, NJ, and extended family.

Karen was born in New Britain, CT, on April 11th, 1943. She attended local school until her junior year, then transferred to The Gateway School in New Haven, CT, where she graduated. After that, to Green Mountain College in Poultney, VT, for one year. For Karen, college life in rural Vermont was not for her, so she decided to do what is now called a gap year and travel throughout Europe with her always best friend from grade school, Judy Singelis. Upon returning to the United States, Karen went to work in her parent’s seasonal restaurant, The Dock & Dine, in Old Saybrook, where she not only perfected her cooking skills, but met her soon to be soulmate, Bernard Schwarz. Karen and Bernie started their married life in Essex, CT, but soon afterward moved to a new neighborhood in Old Lyme which would become their life for many years as they watched their sons grow up. Here, lifetime friendships were formed and a zillion kids in the neighborhood loved “Mrs. Schwarz”, who always had a ton of treats and never sent anyone home for being naughty. Lasting memories were also made at their picturesque Fenwick cottage “Last Resort”, and while spending time on their boat “Miss Karen”, cruising to many ports together, including Nantucket and Florida.

Karen will be remembered as the brightest light in the room, the “hostess with the mostest”, to know her was to adore her. Her joy for life and positive spirit were contagious. A wonderful mother to Peter and Matthew, giving each consult, comfort, and praise over the years, they always knew she was there for them. She fought her medical battles with the spirit of a lion and even in great pain displayed nothing but grace and dignity. With all she dealt with, she never complained, she was our superhero. Karen’s legacy of courage, strength, and bravery will forever live in our hearts.

The family would personally like to thank Judith Singelis for her dedication and friendship over the years, and her wonderful team of doctors and caregivers, namely Liz, Jenn, and Lexi, who provided much needed support and companionship.

Her memorial service will be held at 12:30pm on Saturday, December 9th, at Duck River Cemetery, in Old Lyme, CT.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Karen Schwarz to High Hopes Therapeutic Riding at https://highhopestr.org/.