RIKER, Karen Elaine (Cowan)

Age 66, of Horseheads, NY, was born January 18, 1959 in Elmira, daughter of the late Frederick and Velma (Roberts) Cowan, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at the Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, PA. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband of 40 years, Jeffrey L. Riker Sr.; sisters, Debbie Cowan and Eileen Brusso. Survivors left to cherish Karen's memory are her sons and daughter-in-law's, Jason Riker and Kim Murray; Jeffrey Riker and Tina Perez, Jr; grandchildren Eric Davis, Alexis Riker with her children, Ava and Harper, Jacob Riker with his children, Madalaine and Paxton; Gabriel Riker and Grace Riker; sister, Mary Nichols; brother-in-law, Charlie Anderson; nephews, Chris Cowan and Zach Cowan; feline companion, "Benny". Karen absolutely loved scratching lottery tickets, especially when she would win something. She loved spending time with her sister and getting caught up with everything. Karen and Jeff would religiously go to breakfast and after he passed, she kept that tradition going in memory of him. Above all else, Karen loved spending time with her grandkids and great grandkids. Celebrating birthdays turned into birthday dinners with the family. She could always be found listening to and jamming out to her favorite music, rock and roll! She was passionate about political discussions at family events. Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Karen's life on Sunday, September 21, 2025 at Eldridge Park 96 Eldridge Park Drive Elmira, NY 14901 from 2:00 to 6:00 pm, to share food and memories.