Karen Harari Tarnofsky

August 21, 1950--November 14, 2022

Our dearly beloved wife, mother and grandmother has passed away peacefully after a painful illness which she bore with her usual style and courage. Karen was a native of New York City who grew up on Central Park West. She acquired a love of travel from her parents and enjoyed many exciting trips to Europe, Mexico and South America. Her husband of 52 years fell in love with her at first sight while boarding a plane to Israel.

In her college years Karen's artistic talent led to her gaining acceptance to the prestigious College of Music and Arts at the City University of New York. Over the years her ability manifested itself in a series of beautiful paintings and a skill for interior design. She married her Canadian husband Steve in 1970 and moved to his home city of Montreal where she lived for 7 years. She never forgot the howling polar winds typical of Montreal in deep winter. Political events led them to move to Grass Valley, CA in 1977. Six weeks later two memorable events happened almost simultaneously: Karen gave birth to her beloved daughter Alyssa, and just minutes later the first rains came ending the great California drought.

Karen enjoyed reading and studying history and became especially knowledgeable regarding the kings and queens of England. Her history-loving father-in-law announced more than once that if anyone had a question regarding English history, Karen was the "go-to" person.

Karen's practical side proved to be a great boon to her husband, handling and maintaining the administrative and secretarial side of his insurance business. They worked together harmoniously in this manner for many years.

Above all, Karen was appreciated as a homemaker whose warmth and love were felt by everyone in the family. She hosted many memorable Thanksgivings and Passovers and some of her delicious recipes are destined to live on through her devoted daughter. We are all heart-broken at her loss, but we comfort ourselves in knowing that she lived a full and happy life. Karen's husband will always treasure her last words to him: "It was wonderful!"

Karen is survived by her husband Steve, daughter Alyssa, son-in-law Ed, grandson Tyler, sister Michelle, brother-in-law John, cousins Mira, Aaron, Michael and Linda, sister-in-law Claudia, niece Ashley and beloved cat Max.

Karen was predeceased by her mother Clara, father Carmi, mother-in-law Evelyn, father-in-law Saul, and brother-in-law Ron.

A private memorial will be held at a date to be determined. We invite you to make a donation to Alley Cat Allies in her honor, in place of sending flowers.