Karen Jane Houston (Stamm), aged 67, of Concord, NC, passed away unexpectedly on April 8, 2024 surrounded by her family. She was born on December 19, 1956, in Syracuse, NY, to the late Andrew Stamm and Virginette Pawlewicz.
Karen was a devoted mother to her daughters, Kelly Kendall and Courtney Arias and a loving grandmother to Isabella Perez, Adelina Arias, Lilianna Arias, Emery Kendall, and Emilio Arias. She cherished her family dearly, including her son-in-law, Brandon Kendall, and son-in-law, Danny Arias. Karen is also survived by her sister-in-law, Mary Emily Alibrandi, niece Katie Stamm Gordon (Jeff Gordon, husband), nephew/godson Andrew B. Stamm and a brother Robert Stamm. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her daughter, Rachel Houston.
Karen’s educational journey included graduating from East Syracuse-Minoa High School, earning her a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Niagara University. She continued her studies and received a Master’s degree in Nursing from Syracuse University and a Doctorate from George Mason University in Education. Her career expanded over 40 years as an inspiring and dedicated NICU Nurse, starting her career at Crouse Hospital, later becoming a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, and practicing at several different hospitals across the United States. She ended her career as a Nursing Professor at Marymount University in Arlington, VA before she retired. She was a woman of faith and found solace in worship at St. Mathews Catholic Church in Syracuse, NY, and later at St. James Catholic Church in Concord, NC. Karen will be remembered for her generous spirit, love for gardening, and passion for travel. Her family meant everything to her, and she leaves behind a legacy of kindness and devotion.
Private Viewing/funeral services were held at Mathewson-Forani Funeral Home, East Syracuse and St. Mary’s Cemetery in Syracuse, NY. Karen was laid to rest, on Saturday, April 13, 2024.
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