Karen F. Runk, 66, of Hometown, Pennsylvania, made her transition to be with the Lord on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, surrounded by her loving family.
Karen was the daughter of Frank Carpency and Eleanor Rusnak. After her father passed away, her mother, Eleanor, married Robert Zlock and together they raised Karen in Hometown, along with her siblings Donna and Jay. Karen graduated from Marian High School and became a Registered Nurse. She continued her education and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Education. Karen dedicated a great part of her life to caring for others as an operating room nurse. She shared her passion for nursing by teaching many nurses at the Schuylkill Technology Center in Frackville, PA. She also cared for students in Tamaqua as their elementary school nurse. She went on to become the Dean of Academic Affairs for Keiser University in Melbourne, FL. Whether you knew Karen as the school nurse, your teacher, Dean Runk, your friend, or colleague, you knew her as the one who would go above and beyond to help anyone in any way possible.
Karen married the love of her life, Robert Runk, in 1978. They lived together in Hometown, PA for many years before relocating to Palm Bay, FL in 2005. Karen is survived by her daughter, Kelly Arner and her husband Shaun Arner, and her son Michael Runk and his wife Amanda Runk. Karen was best known as “Nana” by her grandchildren, Chad, Ethan, Nolan, and Lucas. Karen’s favorite thing to do was spend time with her family. Whether it was going to the beach, their favorite restaurants, or relaxing at home, she did it with her loving husband, Bob, by her side. She loved cooking, baking, shopping, and keeping traditions with her daughter, Kelly. She looked forward to talking to Mike every day on the drive to and from work and watching Eagles games together. She also loved sleepovers and spoiling her grandkids. She was her family’s biggest cheerleader, from swim meets and little league games to high school football games and band concerts. Private services at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are being handled by the Hartman Funeral Home, 1791 West Penn Pike, Rte. 309, New Ringgold. Online condolences may be made at www.hartmanfuneralhomeinc.com.