Karen S. Wendel

Karen S. Wendel, 78, formerly of Rindge, NH, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2024, at Maplewood Nursing Home in Westmoreland NH.

Karen was born on May 31, 1945, in Dayton, Ohio, beloved daughter of the late Richard and Marjorie (Battson) Dietz.   

Karen would eventually wed Larry Wendel, living various places in southern California. They chose to settle in Merced, California where she retired as a secretary for the Merced City School District. Karen dedicated herself to her role as a secretary, bringing her innate warmth and compassion to the workplace every day. 

Outside of her professional life, Karen had an artistic flair that brought joy to those around her. She poured her heart into various arts and crafts including drawing, cross-stitching, and creating personalized cards and gifts for her loved ones. Karen's creative talents were treasured by all who received her thoughtful creations. Karen was also a strong advocate for special needs education and would also spend time volunteering for many years.

Karen was preceded in death by her husband, Larry, and by daughter, Lauri.

She will be forever missed by her daughter Kristen. As well as, her two beloved grandchildren, Ryley and Braden.

Family and friends are invited to calling hours on Friday, January 19, 2024 from 11:00am – 12:00pm, at the Cournoyer Funeral Home, 33 River St. Jaffrey, NH.  A memorial service will be held in the funeral home chapel immediately afterwards at 12:00 noon.  Karen will be buried with her husband at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Winchendon in a private ceremony later.   

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Karen’s name to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.