Karen S. Finley

Karen S. (Opatich) Finley, age 66, of Erie, passed away peacefully on Wednesday June 7^th, 2023 at Elmwood Gardens.

She was born on February 7, 1957, to the late Samuel and Elizabeth Opatich.

Karen graduated from St. Benedict Academy in 1975 and studied Psychology at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.

She began her career as a licensed insurance agent in Ohio. She then moved back to Pennsylvania and worked for various insurance companies in Erie. She always loved flying with Richard and was a member of the Civil Air Patrol. In 1987, Karen retired from the insurance industry. Throughout her life, Karen appreciated being with friends and family, especially her children and grandchildren, who brought her much joy. One of her and Richard’s favorite hobbies was attending airshows together. 

Karen always brightened every room she was in and had a heartfelt gift to make everyone feel special.  Her quick wit and quips could make anyone laugh, no matter how serious the situation. Her deep laughs were contagious and made you join in with her.  Karen had a voracious sweet tooth that was known to any of the local donut, cake, and ice cream shops.  Karen loved to fish with her parents, and continued this with her husband and children. Lake Wilhelm was a very special place for her and the family.  Those of you who would hear of her fishing exploits know that she would not touch the fish or bait the hook.  But you always knew you would hear a “here fishy, fishy, fishy” while she was fishing.

Karen was the strongest and bravest women one could ever hope to meet.  She faced adversity and challenges with a smile, and a tenacity that could overcome anything.  She always found the positive in any situation and placed others’ needs before her own. 

Karen is survived by her beloved husband of 39 years, Richard Orwick Finley; her children, Carolyn Ann Naseer (Muki) of NC; and Lieutenant Colonel Emil John “E.J.” Kesselring (Tami) of PA; sisters, Judith Vorgang of PA; Diane Hodas (Frank) of FL; and Eileen Salamone (Charles) of FL. She is further survived by grandchildren, Zayne and Zaria Naseer of NC and Annmarie and Mackenzie Kesselring of PA.

Friends may call on the family at Burton Quinn Scott Cremation & Funeral Services Wintergreen, 2532 Norcross Road, on Saturday, July 22, 2023, from 1 p.m. until the time of service there at 2 p.m. There will be no grave side service.

In lieu of flowers, Karen requested donations be made in her name to the National M.S. Society, Pennsylvania Keystone Chapter. Donate | National Multiple Sclerosis Society (nationalmssociety.org)

Condolences for the family can be made at www.BurtonQuinnScott.com