Of Malden, passed away peacefully at home after a brief illness while surrounded by her family. Karen resided most of her life in Malden, MA with her parents and five sisters. She was the daughter of Ralph and Elizabeth Zumpfe and sister to Cheryl and Anthony Gerniglia of Saugus, Susan and Ken Boomhower of Melrose, Robin and John Morey of Saugus, Kimberly and Marco Cerbone of Andover and Mary Judge and fiancé Robert Murphy of Medford.
Karen was a loving mother to her two daughters, Krystal Ann Mackey and fiancé Myke Gajadhar and Katrina Elizabeth Mackey and fiancé James Carter III and six adoring grandchildren, Justin, Kayla, Mykey, Jordan, Kameren, and Logan. Karen is also survived by many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends including her longtime best friend Naomi Winterburn.
Karen attended Girls Catholic High School and graduated in 1977. She was an avid athlete with a vibrant personality and had a passionate love for animals, especially Sire, Callie, and Tangy. She had a kind heart and was a compassionate care giver to many people in need. Also, in her spare time, she was a proud Door Dasher.
Even though Karen was taken too soon, she lived an extraordinary life and touched many lives. In lieu of flowers, a foundation is being created in Karen’s memory to continue Karen’s legacy of caring for others.
Relatives & friends are invited to attend her funeral from the Breslin Funeral Home, 610 Pleasant St., Malden on Monday June 28th at 8:30 AM followed by a Funeral Mass celebrated at Immaculate Conception Church, 600 Pleasant St., Malden at 10 AM.