Karen Loretta Ward

Age 61, of Naples, FL passed away on May 29, 2016 from complications due to pulmonary hypertension. Born in Pittsburgh, PA she is preceded in death by her parents, William A. Werwie and Ann Aber Werwie.

She is survived by her devoted husband Robert, and loving son Ryan Ward (Denver, CO), sisters Nancy DiMaggio (Fort Mill, SC), and Catherine Zanella (Pittsburgh, PA), brother William Werwie, Jr. (Pittsburgh, PA), sister-in-law Janet Evelhoch (Waldorf, MD), step mother Mary Lou Werwie (Pittsburgh, PA), and many nieces and nephews who were very dear to her.

Karen graduated from Bishop Canevin HS as Valedictorian. She earned a B.S. degree in Medical Technology from the Pennsylvania State University. Working in a clinical program at Pittsburgh's Allegany General Hospital she earned a MT ASCP certification working in the Chemistry Department. She married and moved to Houston working in special chemistry, toxicology, and immunology at a Houston hospital while becoming the Laboratory Supervisor.

After her son was born, Karen became a school volunteer to create books in a Math Superstars program, was a teacher's aide, Team Mom for soccer, baseball, and football, a band booster, active in Cub Scouts, and taught 2nd grade CCD. Her interests included reading, crafts, swimming, and travel. During those years she lived in Houston, Miami, Dallas, Fairfax VA, and retired in Naples, FL. She will be remembered for her beautiful eyes and lovely smile.