Obituaries

Karen M. Zenker Holmes, 50, of West Scranton, passed away on January 3 after a courageous battle with several health issues.
Born in Scranton, she is the daughter of Naomi Fabbri Zenker and the late John (Jack) Zenker. Karen was a graduate of West Scranton High School and served in the United States Army Medical Core. Karen went on to work as an EMT for Weisenflu Ambulance Service, a donor coordinator for Musculoskeletal Transplant Foundation and the International Institute for the Advancement of Medicine. Prior to her illness Karen worked for Dr. Kenneth Lilik as a Neurodiagnostic Tech.
Karen had a sense of humor like no other and demonstrated that right to the end. She loved her family and friends fiercely and will be greatly missed by all. She made herself and home available to anyone in need whether it be a listening ear, place to stay or a good meal. She was a great cook. She was a member of the German American Federation at Waldorf Park and volunteered her help with many of their festivities.
She is survived by her loving son Ben Holmes who was the light of her life. She was also a loving caring second mom nicknamed “Eagle” to Ben’s many friends.
Karen and her companion Terry Hopkins were planning a commitment ceremony to be held on her favorite holiday Halloween but due to her health issues and COVID-19 it was postponed. Terry was the love of her life and always there for her.
Surviving siblings Leon Zenker and wife Sue, Scott Twp.; Laurie Walsh and husband Tim, Moscow; John Zenker and wife Judy, Oxford; Carl Zenker, Scranton; Philip Zenker and wife Lisa, Scranton. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles & cousins. She was preceded in death by a sister-in-law Karen Polutis Zenker
The family would like to thank Geisinger Hospitals in Scranton and Danville as well as Allied Hospice Center for their compassion and great care.
Private arrangements are under the care of Kevin K. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc. 125 N. Main Ave., Scranton. A memorial celebration of life will be planned for a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made in Karen’s name to the donor’s favorite charity.