Obituary of Karen I. Burgess

Karen Ilah Burgess, age 58, of Wellsburg, NY, died Thursday, March 16, 2023 surrounded by her loving family at the ARC Wellsburg home. Karen is survived by her parents Thomas and Ilah Graf Burgess, siblings Dan Burgess and John (Julie) Burgess, nephew Tyler Burgess and niece Sarah Burgess, and many special aunts, uncles and cousins. Karen made an unforgettable entrance into this world on July 4th, in the back seat of her parents' car, while her family was camping in Rome, NY. Just over two pounds at birth, her small life grew to make a special impact in this world. Karen overcame many obstacles living with Down syndrome, and she met and touched many people's lives. She loved helping other people, especially in the kitchen, putting on parties and showers, and holding babies. Karen enjoyed participating in the Special Olympics, camping with her family up at Delta Lake Bible Conference Center (Rome, NY) and attending Haven camp as a camper, graduating from high school, bowling, playing with her dogs, swimming, roller skating, horseback riding, going on vacations (especially the ocean), going out to eat and enjoying a hot fudge sundae for dessert, singing and playing her tambourine at church, watching videos and listening to music (with popcorn on Friday nights), volunteering at the Clemens Center and watching many of their shows, working at Southern Tier Industries (a workplace for handicap individuals), and enjoying spending time with her family of 18 years at the ARC Wellsburg group home. We are forever grateful for the very special staff and housemates that loved Karen so much and took care of her until the very end of her life here on this earth. They were her family. Staff superstars: Mindy, Jolene, Stephanie, Teresa, Kenzie, Bella, Hannah, Nicole, Kathie, Dave and Katie her nurse. Housemates (brothers and sisters): Sarah, Jeremy, Ashlen, Coralie, Glenn, Bonnie and Christine. We love you guys… and the past staff and housemates that were a special part of Karen's life too. Karen had a special love for Jesus, and His love flowed out through her life. We invite you to celebrate Karen's faith and her life with us. Calling hours will be held on Saturday, March 25, 2023, at 2:00 pm at Maranatha Bible Chapel, 774 Sing Sing Rd., Horseheads, NY 14845. A memorial service will follow at 3:00 pm. Reverend Daniel Miller will be officiating. Donations may be made in memory of Karen to the ARC of Chemung-Schuyler at 711 Sullivan St., Elmira, NY 14901.