Karen L. Markward, formerly of Coatesville

Karen L. Markward, 59, of Leola, PA, passed away on Thursday, Aug. 3, 2017, after a hardfought, 28-year battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family at Hospice & Community Care of Mount Joy.

She was born and raised in Coatesville, PA, where she attended Coatesville school systems until 10th grade then graduated from Twin Valley High School in 1976.

She was the loving daughter of Rosemary (Mammarella) Ford of New Holland and George Denilen of Florida. She was the beloved wife of Frank Markward Sr. for 32 years.

Karen is also survived by her children, Frank Markward Jr., husband of Jackie of Lancaster, Mandi Markward, fiancée of Robbie Dowdy Jr. of Chesapeake, VA, and the light of her life, her grandson, Brayden Markward. In addition to her parents, husband and children, she is survived by her sisters, Kathleen, wife of Kevin Maule of Columbia, Sharon, wife of the late Lewis Hall Sr. of Honey Brook. She is preceded in death by her sister, Gina, the late wife of Gregory Kimes of Narvon.

Karen loved working with Smith Anglin Financial Group as a Sales and Marketing Associate for over a decade. Her work was a sincere passion of hers, and she was heavily devoted to her amazing company.

Growing up, she also had a passion for gymnastics and teaching. She was an avid reader and loved attending garage sales with her sister-in-law Penny Guyer of Coatesville. She was happiest out on the water fishing. Her life revolved around her family as she enjoyed the many years of drag racing and traveling with them.

A Memorial Service will be held at Furman Home for Funerals, 59 W. Main St., Leola, PA, on Wednesday, Aug. 9, at 7 p.m. with greeting time from 6 to 7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice & Community Care, P.O. Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604. FurmanFuneralHome.com