Karen Mahnke

Karen R. O’Connell Mahnke of Cayuta, NY, passed away on January 13, 2025 at the age of 72.

She was born on October 17, 1952 to James and Edna (Cook) O’Connell. She graduated from West High School, Painted Post, NY in 1970. Then also attended BOCES for business classes.

She started her working career with the Corning-Painted Post School District in January 1972. First working as a sub then securing a job in the Library Office. In 1977, she was transferred to work in the library at East High school, where she went on to do copy work for the teachers at East and West High Schools. She ended her career with the District in June of 2012, after working in the District Print Shop at the Administration Building. She was a fierce supporter of the volunteer fire service and the Boy Scouts of America.

She was married to Harold L. Mahnke on October 27, 1974, who predeceased her in 2010. She is survived by her son Adam, along with his wife Charlene, grandchildren Henna (Luke) DeVita, Dasia Herrmann, and Gunner Herrmann. She is also survived by brothers, Richard (Wendy) O’Connell of Horseheads, NY, Kevin (Tracey) O’Connell of York, PA and their families, as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

The family will welcome relatives and friends at the Odessa Fire Department on Main Street in Odessa on Saturday, January 18, 2025, from 11am to 2pm for a celebration of her life. Burial will be a private event in Coopers Plains Cemetery, Cooper Plains, NY.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to the Odessa Fire Department or a local Scouting Unit in the Winding Rivers District of the Great Falls Council. 

Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home is assisting the family.