Obituary: Karen H. Phillips of New Hartford

Obituary courtesy of Montano-Shea Funeral Home

Karen H. Phillips

Well, if you are reading this, I guess I have moved on November 28, 2022. I have had a remarkable life with my family at the core of it. I leave behind my husband, Tim and soulmate of 31 years. I was predeceased by my parents, Mary and Emlyn “Bing” Howe and my special in-laws, George and Jeanne Phillips. I also lost my dear son-in-law, Charles Lepow 3 years ago.

My three step-children, Jason, Landon and Jolene have brought much light to my life. I cannot imagine my life without them. Grocery carriage wheels on my heels, stereos and cars being built in the driveway and shenanigans only boys would think of. Skateboards, ATV’s and the list goes on Tim and the children are who breathed life into me daily; albeit scary stuff at times!

My career in dentistry started 50 years ago at Dr. Temkin’s office in Torrington, at age 16. I loved working in the field immediately. I went on to work for an orthodontist for another 17 years with a small stent working in an art gallery for 2 years. I then became a clinical supervisor for Avon Oral, Facial, and Dental implant surgery for 31 years until my retirement at age 68. I enjoyed my time with Dr. Jospeh F. Piecuch, Dr. Stuart E. Lielbich, Dr. Mark C. Fletcher and Dr. Dan J. Gill. I was proud to be a team member with some of the finest surgeons in the country. I was a member of the Dental Assistants National Board, emeritus, the treasurer of the Connecticut Dental Assistants Association and a volunteer for the Connecticut Mission of Mercy for 5 years.

My passion in life has always been music. I have played the piano since age 11 and sung in many group settings. I was a member of the Berkshire Singers, co-founder of the Connecicut Yankeee Chorale and the Registrar of the Litchfield County Choral Union in Norfolk for 13 years. My favorite performance was with the Boarshead Festival at First Church in Winsted. I also dabbled in golf and loved to swim.

Tim and I also loved to travel. 4 cruises to the Caribbean, 2007 trip to Alaska, Yellowstone and Yosemite two years in a row with our friends and also relatives to these magical places. We have had many trips to Florida, Texas and South Carolina where our relatives live.

I leave behind our son Jason, wife Tammy, children Brittany and husband Greg with children Lexi, Chevelle and Greg, Chelsey and children Vincent and Emme. I also leave behind our son Landon, wife Jamie, children Tyler, wife Meredith and daughter Lena and Brandon and wife Marissa. I also leave behind Natasha Neri, husband Tim and children Greyson and Oliver. I leave my daughter and “best friend” Jolene with husband Carl and son Max Timothy.

My two special brothers, George and wife Sue Howe and Norm and wife Bunny Howe have been the lights of my life with many special nieces and nephews, too numerous to mention. I love you all!

I will miss our Texas and New York families very much. I leave my special brother and sister-in-law, Reverend Christopher J. Phillips and wife Joann with their 5 children and grandchildren. They always welcomed us with open arms. I also leave my brother and sister-in-law, Peter and wife Marjorie with their 4 children and grandchildren.

I want to mention my two special Aunts even though I loved all my Mom’s brothers and sisters. Antoinette and Rosemarie taught me the love of music, Broadway, clothes and museums. They introduced me to New York City which I love to this day.

Last but not least, I want to thank my dear friends, especially Sharon Kelley who walked the cancer walk with me - literally. Tim asked her in the beginning if she would help us navigate this journey which was no easy feat. She never waivered, even during the hard stuff. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. I want to mention I met strangers who became friends during this time and they are the real unsung heroes.

Thank you to Dr. Sandoval, my PCP of over 25 years for her gentle care, Dr. Yanna Karrabottass, my OB-GYN of 25 years and Dr. Erin Hartnett, my very special oncologist and “friend” for your wonderful care and positive attitude.

I have been blessed with many dog companions including Skipper, Coco, Zebby, Bella and Buster. Thanks for your loyalty and we musn’t forget Oliver, my cat.

Please don’t mourn my passing but celebrate the amazing life I lived with Tim and company. I enjoyed a great career, fun hobbies and amazing friends, who could ask for anything more.

Calling hours will be Tuesday, December 6, 2022 at Montano-Shea Funeral Home, 5 Steele Road, New Hartford from 4 – 7 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be on Wednesday, December 7, 2022 at Our Lady of Hope Parish, New Hartford at 11 AM.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children's Hospital, The Bakerville Library, Tunnels to Towers or a charity of your choice. Visit an online guestbook at montano-shea.com.