Karen Rowan - Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Homes & Crematory

Karen Rowan

Karen Rowan, 66, of Newark, Delaware, passed away on Thursday, November 21, 2024.

She was born in Jersey City, New Jersey, to Kenneth and Lois Ross. Karen’s family lived in Hawthorne and Jamesburg, New Jersey, before moving to Delaware in 1969.

She graduated from Christiana High School in 1976, where she sang in the choir and managed the girls’ softball team. Karen married William Rowan in 1985 and was devoted to him until his death in 2010. She worked for the Avon company in Newark for over 30 years as an order fulfillment specialist. Karen and Bill enjoyed many vacations at their trailer in Broadkill Beach.

She loved to bake, knit and crochet, and created numerous afghans and baby blankets for friends and family. Karen was a dedicated Jazzercise enthusiast for many years. She loved her family and especially loved to spend time with her nieces and nephews, along with other children outside of her family. Karen was dedicated to her close friends. She was a die-hard Phillies fan and her wardrobe proved it. Karen and her long-time companion, Frank, enjoyed dining out—especially breakfast on Saturdays, and going on road trips together.

She is survived by her mother, Lois Ross; sister, Linda (Steve) Kay; nephew Jonathon Kay (Brooke Shaw); niece, Jessica (Scott) Weber; great nieces, Emma and Haven Weber; great nephew, Zeke Weber; and her loving companion, Frank Trasatti. Other surviving relatives important to Karen were her aunt, Carol Christman and cousins, Diane Christman-Weischedel, Susan Christman, Kristine Eng, Elizabeth Finger and Elaine Zapata. Karen was preceded in death by her husband, William Rowan and father, Kenneth Ross.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 11 am until 12 noon on Monday, December 2, 2024, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 121 West Park Place, Newark, DE, where a funeral service will begin at 12 noon. Interment will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023 or online by clicking here or Brandywine Valley SPCA, 290 Churchmans Road, New Castle, DE 19720 or online by clicking here.

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11 Condolences for Karen Rowan

  • Karen was like a sister to me. We spent almost everyday of the week together. We talked everyday and I always checked on her daily as she did me. We were very close. I miss her so much already. Her chair in my house is empty and is heart breaking to us. If you knew Karen you were a lucky person. She was a wonderful friend to me and our other friends. She will be missed by many even my dog Mia that we use to call her Aunt Karen. She waited for her everyday.

  • I am finding it a deep hurt in my heart. Karen and I did lots of adventures together. Even went to the beach with her and Bill. She would visit me at college. She never stopped caring about me and checked on me. She is no longer our earth angel but an angel the Lord greeted with open loving arms. Love you Karen🩷

  • I am so sad to hear of the sudden passing of our dear friend Karen! We had many great memories hanging out with our other friends. My deepest condolences to her family and friends! Keeping them in my thoughts and prayers! R.I.P my friend! ❤️

  • So sorry Linda,Steve & Family for your loss. Prayers & thoughts with you all!🙏

    Sincerely in Christ, Joe & Manetta

  • I met Karen several years ago through my cousin Dorie. She would come over Dorie’s whenever I was there to visit. I got to know her pretty well and enjoyed her company. I loved her Phillies outfits, she was always the first to get the newest shirt! She was a kind and generous person and always talked about her family and how much they meant to her. I will miss her . Rest in peace Karen. Heaven has a new angel!

  • I’m in total shock and you could knock me over with a feather while reading of Karen’s passing. My deepest sympathy to her beloved family and dear friends. Karen and I worked side by side for many years at Avon. She took her work serious and poured her heart and soul into it. I hope I’m able to attend her service on Dec. 2nd. Sadly, that day, will be the first anniversary of thr shocking news of my husband’s passing. 🙏 Prayers for Peace & Comfort to those rocked by the news of Karen’s passing. Karen attended my husband’s & sons funeral and I wouldn’t want to miss her service. That’s just how Karen went about her life, caring for others. Till we meet again on the other side, R.I.P. Dear Karen.

  • KAREN WAS A VERY DEAR FRIEND AND COWORKER. WE WORKED TOGETHER AT AVON PRODUCTS FOR OVER 30 YEARS! THE NEWS OF HER PASSING IS JUST SO DEVASTATING. I RECENTLY TALKED TO HER ON MY BIRTHDAY, NOV.13. SHE ALWAYS REMEMBERED IT AND ALWAYS SANG “HAPPY BIRTHDAY” TO ME OVER THE PHONE. I ACTUALLY SAVED ONE VOICEMAIL ON MY PHONE WHEN SHE LEFT ME A MESSAGE A YEAR AGO.

    SHE WAS A VERY CARING AND KIND PERSON. SHE WILL BE MISSED GREATLY. REST IN PEACE ANGEL KAREN <3

  • So sorry Lois to hear of this great loss for you. Prayers

  • I’m so sorry for your loss, Linda & Steve Kay. Our thoughts and prayers are with you! In Christ! Tsiry Rajaonarivo

  • I met Karen 10.5 years ago. She was the kindest most caring woman. She would go out of her way to find an item that you was wanting. I gave her the nickname special k because she saved my life 10 years ago and she will forever in my heart as special k. Karen always welcomed my granddaughters and she loved her nieces and nephews. Our cat Toby is always looking for Karen. Until we meet again you are my special k always

  • Lois,
    I want to offer my deepest sympathy in the loss of your beloved daughter.
    I am sorry I can’t attend the funeral, but you and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
    Sincerely, Brenda Hagelstein