Karen M. (Baye) Retamar

Mrs. Karen M. (Baye) Retamar, age 57, went home to the Lord as she passed away on Monday, June 27, 2016 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with her loved ones at her side. Born in Utica on October 13, 1958, Karen was the daughter of the late Ronald and Marsha (Mazurowski) Baye. She was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School. At one time, she was married to Geraldo Retamar and to that union came the blessings of four children. Karen worked in her vocation as a Certified Nursing Assistant at several area nursing homes. She had been employed by Municipal Housing as a community resourse person at the Adrean Terrace. She also served that agency as a former board member.Karen was well-suited for all her areas of employment because of her passion to help others in need. Karen’s sweet laughter and bright smile lit up a room. She loved music and sang often. She was so lively and lighthearted. Nothing could dim her optimism during her declining health and she enjoyed every day in every way, especially during the holidays. They were happy and important occasions for her, times when her family was together at her table. As a mom, Karen was able to love each of her children with attention to their individual concerns and needs. She shared her wisdom with them and the advice she gave them proved to be true in their later years. When her grandchildren were born, she was regenerated and renewed, and she loved her beautiful bundles of joy so much. During her spare time, she enjoyed knitting and was known as the “slipper queen”. She also created ceramic pieces for each season and holiday celebration. Karen was a parishioner of Historic Old St. John’s Church. She was a true believer and silently shared her faith in prayer and praise to the Lord. Karen is survived by her four children and their loves: Andrea E. Retamar, Ian Retamar, Geraldo Retamar Jr. and Angel Aceto, and Jose and Janelle Retamar; and her grandchildren, Jaden, Airin, and Jeremiah Retamar; Alexia, and Cosamina Retamar; Jacia, Jose, Eneliza, Jalaina and Eliana Retamar. She will also be remembered by her sisters, Ronnette Thomas, Donna Sanchez, Kelly Jenkins, and Sharon Rucker; her many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, aunts, godchild, and her childhood friends, Linda and Patty LaZore. She was predeceased by her mother-in-law, Maria Sanchez. The family is grateful to the staff of the Dialysis Unit at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center, and the personnel of the Intensive Care Unit at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center, especially Brianna Sangiacomo who was so compassionate and kind. Visitation will be held Saturday from 11:30-1:30 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Karen's funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Saturday afternoon at 1:30 at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Rev. Paul Madej officiating the ceremony.

Karen M. (Baye) Retamar

October 13, 1958 - June 27, 2016