Karen Ann Voorhees

Karen Ann Voorhees, 50, of Bethlehem, a radiant beacon of positivity and an inspiration to many, passed away on November 6, 2023, with her family by her side. Born on November 2, 1973, in Allentown to Frank and Sherry Klepeiss, Karen lived a fulfilling life characterized by love, generosity, selflessness, and optimism.

On October 7, 1995, Karen married the love of her life, Mark W. Voorhees. Together, they built a beautiful life and were blessed with two wonderful children, Hannah Brown, and Nicholas Voorhees. Hannah and Nicholas, both carry forward Karen's legacy of compassion and positivity. Karen was incredibly proud of her children and their achievements. She cherished every moment spent with her family and she will be dearly missed.

Karen was a beacon of support for others, always ready to lend a helping hand, a listening ear, or a beautiful smile. She was everybody's friend, touching countless lives with her kindness and warmth. Karen’s vast circle of friends is a testament to how she lived her life.

Karen’s energy was infectious, and her positive outlook on life was truly inspiring. Even in her darkest of days, Karen had a zest and determination for life, and never gave up hope for recovery. She loved being a girl and her mantra of “get up, dress up, and show up” served as a guide.

Karen’s lifelong journey in education began as a proud graduate of Dieruff High School, class of 1991. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Education from East Stroudsburg University in 1995. It was here that she formed lifelong bonds with her sorority sisters of Delta Phi Epsilon. Her thirst for knowledge did not end there as she further pursued her Master of Science in Education from Wilkes University.

Karen's passion for education was not just limited to her personal growth. She dedicated 29 years of her life to nurturing young minds, first at Holy Spirit School, and later at Broughal Middle School, and Fountain Hill Elementary School. She was more than just a teacher to her students; she was a guiding light, a pillar of support, and a friend. Teaching was not a job to Karen, but a calling to better the world. She formed unbreakable bonds with her colleagues and appreciated her time with fellow teachers.

Karen's journey may have ended, but her spirit lives on in the many lives she touched. She was a loving daughter, a devoted wife, a caring mother, and an inspiring teacher. Her memory will be cherished by her husband, Mark, her daughter, Hannah and husband, Dekota, son, Nicholas, parents, Frank and Sherry, and her brother, Frederick.

Karen Voorhees, a woman of strength, love, and unyielding optimism, left an indelible mark on the world. She will be deeply missed, but her radiant spirit will continue to shine brightly in our hearts. As we remember Karen, let us celebrate her life, her achievements, and her legacy which will continue to inspire and motivate all those who were fortunate enough to know her.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, November 12, 2023, from 2-5 p.m. and again on Monday, November 13, 2023, from 9-11 a.m. immediately followed by words of remembrance at Connell Funeral Home, 245 E. Broad St. Bethlehem, PA 18018. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 12 noon on Monday, November 13, 2023, at Our Lady Help of Christians, 444 N. Jasper St., Allentown, PA 18109. Burial will be private.

Memorial contribution checks may be made payable to the Foundation for the Bethlehem Area School District, with Karen Voorhees Memorial Fund in the memo and mailed to PO Box 646, Bethlehem, PA 18016.

Online donations may be made at https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=V3N4JAEVKHJ3Y

The family will be using donated funds to establish a scholarship for a graduating Liberty or Freedom High School student that will be pursuing an education degree in college.

Condolences may be offered at www.connellfuneral.com.