Karen Susan Charlton, 64, of Ambridge, passed away peacefully at home on July 31st, 2026.

She was born on February 3rd, 1962, a daughter of the late Arthur and Margaret Gaertner.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother and sister-in-law, Bill and Donna Gaertner.

She was the devoted wife of Lawrence Charlton and a loving mom to Parker Charlton (Natasha Charlton), Abbie Charlton (Buddy Cowles), and Preston Charlton (Jordan Charlton). She adored her grandchildren: Malayna, Maddox, Reagan, Dawson, and Vada; she treasured the time she retired early to spend with them. She also loved her step-children: Larry Charlton and his son, Blake, Aaron Charlton (Jennifer) and their son, Lochlan, Natasha Jungling (Eric), Savannah Bledsoe (Demar) and their children, Pietro, Talon, and Tymber; the late Nicholas Gavulich; and Clayton Gavulich (Brittany) and their children, Baeleigh and Cameron. She also had a special place in her heart for numerous nieces and nephews and for many of her children’s friends who became her beloved “bonus children.” Her home was always open, and she made everyone feel welcome, loved, and part of the family. She is also survived by her sisters, Peggy Watson (Rich) and Linda McAfee (Bob) and her in-laws, Scott Charlton (Susan), Kevin Charlton, and Heather Charlton, along with many nieces and nephews.

Karen was a member of One in Christ Church in Ambridge and lived her life rooted in faith and family. She worked for more than 30 years at Comcast before retiring to spend more time with those she loved. She loved cruises, playing cards, visiting the casino, and cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins. Her laughter, warmth, and open-door hospitality will be lovingly remembered by family and friends.

A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, August 6th from 2-4 P.M. & 6 P.M. until the time of a prayer service at 7:30 P.M. in the John Syka Funeral Home, 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements. A Celebration of Life will also be held on Sunday, August 9th at 4 P.M. at One in Christ Church, 798 Park Road, Ambridge.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the St. Peregrine Cancer Shrine at cancershrine.org (click here).