Karen C. Caruso

Karen Christine Caruso, age 42, of North Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, April 1, 2011 in the comfort and privacy of her home. Born in Utica on August 2, 1968, Karen is the daughter of Thomas Caruso, Sr. and the late Deborah (Ellis) Caruso. Upon graduating from high school, she attended the Madison-Oneida BOCES Licensed Practical Nurse (L.P.N.) program where she received her credentials to practice as an LPN in New York State. She subsequently held a position at the St. Luke’s Nursing Home. Karen was an intelligent woman blessed with strength, independence and wisdom, especially as a single mother. She was devoted and always there for her daughter LaToya; she dedicated her life to her. Karen was an excellent role model and all her efforts were made to ensure that her daughter would be a successful woman in all aspects of life. To those who knew her, she was a fighter and would never give up. A knowledgeable person, Karen was an avid reader and a gifted writer. During her leisure time she enjoyed scrapbooking and attending LaToya's dance performances. Karen is survived by her beloved daughter, LaToya Brooks of NYC; her father, Thomas Caruso, Sr. of Utica; her brothers, Thomas Caruso, Jr., and Mark Caruso, both of Utica, Louis Caruso of Oklahoma, and Joseph Caruso of Poland, NY. Karen is also survived by her cousin Tammy Bottini, who was like a sister; her nieces and nephews, Brittany Caruso, Jewel Caruso, and Louis Caruso, Jr.; numerous cousins, aunts and uncles. She also leaves behind many friends of past and present years. She was predeceased by her paternal grandparents, Louis T. and Helen Caruso; maternal grandparents, Doris and Robert Ellis; uncle, Ron Ellis; aunt and uncle, Louann and Frank Klar; and great-aunt, Elizabeth Ellis. The family extends sincere thanks to the Utica Police and Fire Departments for their response and consideration. Visitation will be held Tuesday (today) from 4:00-6:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Karen’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Tuesday evening at 6:00 at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Rev. John Buehler officiating. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family.