Karen M. (Hanks) Phillips

Karen M. (née Hanks) Phillips, 80, of Niagara Falls, NY, peacefully passed away on May 21, 2023, surrounded by her family, after a prolonged illness.

Born at home in Pendleton, NY, on June 16, 1942, she was the daughter of the late Neal and Alice (née McVaugh) Hanks. On November 23, 1963, Karen married Robert R. Phillips of Tonawanda, NY. Over their 60 years together, they raised a beautiful family and had many wonderful adventures.

A graduate of Starpoint Central School, she began her working career at Marine Trust Bank. She worked alongside her husband Bob in his businesses, D & B Electronics and Linde Television, for many years. She went on to work as an Administrative Assistant at several companies, including Clover Industries and Stovroff and Herman real estate. She ended her career as an Executive Assistant at Holiday Inn Grand Island.

Karen was most proud to be Mom to two children, Mark R. Phillips and Laura Anne McGarvey, and Mema to Morgan and Phillip McGarvey. Over the years she and Bob and the kids enjoyed boating, swimming, camping, snowmobiling, and other wonderful adventures. After retirement her and Bob continued to create memories, traveling the country including a month long trip along Route 66. Karen was an avid reader and loved family game night, karaoke, line dancing, and lunch with “the girls.” Her wonderful personality and signature smile brought joy to everyone she met. Karen enjoyed cooking and entertaining for family and friends. She was a member of Women’s Professional Business Association, and she and Bob belonged to Pendleton Snowmobile Club, Turning Wheels, and the Lake Erie Road Runners.

Karen is survived by her husband Bob; son, Mark Phillips (Andrés); daughter, Laura McGarvey; grandchildren, Morgan and Phillip McGarvey; sister, Maureen (née Hanks) Coon; brother, Merritt Hanks (Frances), and sister-in-law, Jill (née Phillips) Fritz.In addition to her parents, Karen was predeceased by her In-laws, Ralph R. and Maryann (née Merrill) Phillips, Charles Coon, and Terry Fritz. 

The family wishes to give special thanks to the many nurses, aides, and support staff from Niagara Hospice as well as her personal care aide, Lynn Wolf. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Dr. Lockport, NY 14094.

The family will be present to receive friends on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m., with a prayer service beginning at 1:00 p.m., at the OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, 2215 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY (716-297-9007).  Professional arrangements are under the care of the Goodlander family.  Share condolences and view her tribute video at GOODLANDERCARES.com 

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