Laurens – Karen E. Rollins, 78, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2021.
Karen was born in Canajoharie, NY on June 19, 1943 and was the daughter of Vern and Elizabeth “Betty” Shafer. She grew up and graduated from New Berlin Central School in 1961 and went on to attend Oswego State and Oneonta State College, obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in English and Elementary Education.
Karen went on to teach English, Reading and Elementary Education in Worcester and Laurens Central Schools for 22 years. She advised cheerleading, drama club and key club in the schools as well as volunteered at Fox Hospital after retiring. She loved Broadway plays and would take her drama club students to shows in New York City to enjoy.
Karen enjoyed spending her summers at their camp in Fairhaven, NY on Lake Ontario with friends and family. She enjoyed baking and stitching many beautiful quilts for people to enjoy.
Karen was a loving and devoted wife, mother and grandmother. Karen is survived by her beloved husband Tom Rollins, children Chris and Jennifer Rollins, Rebecca (Rollins) and Robb Clemens, grandchildren Connor and Katie Rollins, Brody and Malia Clemens and brother, Jim Shafer.
Family and friends are invited to calling hours on Friday, September 3, 2021 from 4:00-6:00 PM at Dakin Funeral Home LP, 17 N. Main St, New Berlin NY. Burial will be private at the Fairview Cemetery in New Berlin, NY |
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Jerry and Patty Schrag
Apalachin, NY
Tom- Patty and I recently learned of Karen's passing. We are so sorry for you and your family's loss.
Love is a blessing to be held in our memories. I know you have many.Stay strong.
Audrey Anderson
Saranac Lake, NY
Dear Tom, Chris, Jen, Becky, Robb and grandchildren,
My sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers to all of you with the recent passing of Karen. I did see Karen two yrs ago in a senior aerobics class in Laurens, spoke with her several times, always very nice, kind and giving. RIP Karen.
Jan Vrooman
Castile, NY
Sorry to hear of Dick's passing. We both grew up on North St. in Edmeston and spent a lot of time fishing together. June was a classmate of mine.
Condolences to Tom and Dick's children and grand children.
Greg Piascik
Fair Haven,NY
Sorry to hear the news Tom. Cheryl and I are thinking of you.
Chris LaPolt Groleau
Portsmouth, NH
Mr. Rollins, Chris, and Becky,
I am so sorry for your loss. Though she probably had no idea how many lives she touched, there were most certainly many!! Her perpetual smile, kindness, and ability to make everyone feel welcome is what I remember most! She will be missed by so many. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Jack & Carolyn. Chase
Salt Lake City, UT
So sorry to hear of the loss of Karen. I was glad to catch up with her when I came back to New Berlin for a class reunion. She was a fun classmate, and has certainly accomplished a lot.
Carole Dunham
I am so sorry to hear of Karen's death. She was a classmate of mine and a good friend. I saw her last at our 50th class reunion. Such a great contributor to education and to life itself. My love and prayers to her family at this difficult time. Sincerely, Carole
Beth Arbas
Tempe, Arizona
Mr. Rollins, Chris and Becky and family --
I have so many memories with your Mom. She touched so many lives and made such a difference. In any situation, your Mom always extended grace and acceptance to all those around her. I am beyond grateful and blessed to have known her and to have had her influence in my life. Much love and strength to all of you during this time.
Vicky Arbas Pelletier
Trumbull CT
Mr. Rollins, Chris and Becky -
I’m sure you have heard it over and over again what an absolutely incredible person your mom was! There were so many memories that I have that wouldn’t have been if it wasn’t for your mother! She seemed to permanently have a smile on her face! She was also such a dear friend to our mom and I know my mother was just so grateful for that! God bless all of you! I hope you are remembering all the good she did in her lifetime!!! Sending so much love!!
Candy (Smith) Lamour
WASHINGTON, NJ
So sorry for your loss. I was reminded that I had Mrs Shafer as my elementary school teacher in New Berlin, never realizing Mrs. Rollins was her daughter. Mrs Rollins was such a wonderful sweet women and also, a Great teacher.
Prayers to you all.
Michael Surin
Rotterdam, NY
Tom and family, I am so sorry to hear the news of Karen's passing. My family would like to offer our deepest sympathy.
Mike, Kathy, Kristin and Kelsey Surin
Chris Jordan
Monroeville, PA
Becky and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I enjoyed our conversations about our families and you always spoke lovingly about your mother as well as your father and brother. You are a wonderful friend and colleague, and I am keeping you and your family in my prayers.
Glee Family
South New Berlin Ny
We want to wish your entire family our deepest sympathy at this time of your loss. You have been blessed with such a terrific wife ,mom, grandmother and sister. Anything we can do let us know Tom. You all have so many wonderful memories to draw from. Thinking of you all
Janet and Richard Thom
Jamestown,NY
Tom and family, Our deepest condolences on the loss of your loving wife and mother, Karen.
She was an angel in disguise, who always greeted us with a smile and friendly gesture.
Tom, you know you are always welcome at our house.
Yours, Jan and Dick Thom
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