Obituaries

Karen Marie Gaenzle, 72

May 5, 1951 - April 06, 2024

Karen Marie Gaenzle, a cherished member of the Lancaster community, passed away peacefully on April 6, 2024, at her residence in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Born on May 5, 1951, in Lancaster, PA, Karen was a devoted wife to her husband, Gerard “Gerry” Gaenzle for over 45 years.

Karen dedicated over three decades of her life working in the deli department at Giant Food Stores on Columbia Ave., where her warm smile and genuine care for customers made her a beloved figure among her colleagues and patrons. She was known for her unwavering work ethic and friendly nature, shaping lasting relationships with those she encountered.

As a true child of the 60s, Karen was an original concertgoer of Woodstock, embodying the spirit of peace and love that defined that era. She relished spending time with her family, creating cherished memories that will live on in their hearts forever. Karen’s love for the beach brought her solace and joy, providing a place of tranquility where she could unwind and appreciate the beauty of nature.

A compassionate soul, Karen touched the lives of many with her kindness and gentle spirit. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her spirit will live on in her husband Gerry, children, Joshua G. Gaenzle of Lancaster, and Heather Gemmill of Millersville; grandchildren, Amanda, Eva, and Kylie; great grandchildren, Aubree, and Avery; and siblings, Mike Sidler of Exton, and Judy Stallings of Lancaster. She was preceded in passing by her parents, Werner and Ruth Sidler, and siblings, Nancy Clarke, and Lou Sidler.

The funeral service to honor Karen’s life will be held at Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory, 414 E. King St. Lancaster, PA 17602, on Saturday, April 13, 2024, at 12:00 pm. Prior to the service, there will be a public viewing at 10:00 am. Memorial contributions in Karen’s name may be made the funeral home to offset funeral expenses or to Hospice & Community Care. They provided amazing compassion and care for her family during this difficult time.

Watch the tribute video

Leave a condolence on this Memorial Page


Be sure to include your name

Please note that your condolence will not appear on this page until it is reviewed. Condolences usually appear within 24 hours of being submitted.

Condolences to the Family

April 11, 2024

Sorry for loss work with Karen at Giant she was always pleasant and kind.
JOHN & Diane Seidle

April 11, 2024

Rest in peace Karen. God bless.
Richard Boas Jr.

April 10, 2024

To the Gaenzle Family,
I am so sorry for your loss.  I never really knew Karen, but I do remember seeing her at Giant.  I knew your entire family, since I lived about 1/2 block away from you growing up.  It was always so much fun at your house.  We always had something to laugh about.  Many prayers go out to you and the entire family.
Fran Lombardo Spangler

April 08, 2024

Karen, my dearest love, I miss you so much already.  The only thing that makes me smile is knowing that you are no longer in pain or suffering.  You will always be my angel. The only difference now is that my angel is my guardian angel keeping me near and dear from above.  There will never be another.  You are my true love, friend and my everything. Nobody and I mean no one can take your place.  I love you always and forever. Please know I’ll see you soon . Say hi to Ruth, Jack and Florita for me and Larry’s both of them and everyone else.  Just watch that ziggy and Sasha don’t pee all over your feet because they’ll be so excited to see you.  Tell ziggy boy daddy said hi. We’re all fine here and all of us Amanda and kids are getting along great I know that made you happy, you smiled endlessly when I told you that. We will always cherish and honor you from now to eternity.  I love you my darling.  Be good, smoke a bowl and chill. All my love forever.  Your husband, Gerry.

Visitation
Saturday, April 13, 2024
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory
414 East King Street
Lancaster, PA 17602
Map and Directions

Get Maps and Directions >
Services
Saturday, April 13, 2024
12:00 PM
Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory
414 East King Street
Lancaster, PA 17602
Map and Directions

Get Maps and Directions >
Send Flowers Online

Offering Lancaster, PA funeral services for over 75 years.

Our seven funeral homes in Lancaster and Lebanon Counties makes it easy and convenient to make arrangements and host services close to home.

  • Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home Lancaster
  • 414 East King St.
  • 717-393-9661
  • Charles F. (Chip) Snyder, Jr. Funeral Director / Supervisor
  • more info
  • Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home Lititz Pike
  • 3110 Lititz Pike
  • 717-560-5100
  • Charles F. (Chad) Snyder, III Funeral Director / Supervisor
  • more info
  • Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home Millersville
  • 441 North George St.
  • 717-872-5041
  • Mark D. Burkholder Funeral Director / Supervisor
  • more info
  • Spacht-Snyder Family Funeral Home Lititz
  • 127 South Broad St.
  • 717-626-2317
  • Jacqueline Adamson Funeral Director / Supervisor
  • more info
  • Bachman-Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory Strasburg
  • 7 South Decatur Street
  • 717-687-7644
  • Norman T. Mable Funeral Director / Supervisor
  • more info
  • Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home Willow Street
  • 2421 Willow Street Pike
  • 717-464-4600
  • Kelly Gramola Townsend Funeral Director / Supervisor
  • more info
  • Snyder Bean Funeral Home & Crematory Lebanon
  • 890 Isabel Dr.
  • 717-272-4634
  • Charles F. (Chad) Snyder, III Funeral Director / Supervisor
  • more info