Obituary of Karen A. Kress

Karen Kress of Watkins Glen, NY, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, February 9, 2024, at the age of 69, surrounded by her children, granddaughter Colette and loving husband Gene – just the way she wanted it. Simply going home to heaven, undoubtedly passing back into her mother's embrace. Born on December 20th, 1954 to Charlotte and James Baker, one of four children. She bought the house next to where she grew up on Clarence Street and raised her children to be as connected to family and place as she was. She was a caretaker to her parents and aunt as they aged. She took care of her own, a mother, sister, aunt and grandmother always putting family first. Early in life, she began working at Schuyler Hospital becoming head of housekeeping, before leaving to raise her family. Later, she embraced her passions and built a successful business, "Gifts from the Heart" over thirty-three years at the Windmill Farm and Craft Market, where she served as a board member, vendor and volunteer. Her shop was a beloved stop on the North Street of Shops, an anchor for repeat visitors who would come year-after-year to see the one-of-a-kind creations made by their friend Karen. Karen's greatest joy was being a grandmother, first to Cora, and then to Colette – miracles which initially seemed hard to get, she reveled in all the time she had with them – making cookies, doing crafts, making play-doh, singing, playing on the playground or simply just being content, she loved having them home with her. Her love and care are enduring for those who she loved, providing faith and comfort even in her absence. She was predeceased by her mother and father Charlotte and James, uncle Pete Spearman and cousin Michael Robertson. She is survived by her husband Gene; children, Melanie, Shelly, and Adam (Amy) Kress; her grandchildren, Cora Murphy and Colette Kress; her siblings, James (Pam) Baker, Don (Diane) Baker and Linda (David) Gokey; as well as her nieces, Stephenie Monroe and Carly Zeno (Anthony). In keeping with her wishes Karen was laid to rest next to her parents in a private graveside service in Montour Cemetery. For all those wishing to remember her the family asks that you send a contribution for a memorial stone to be placed in-front of her shop at the Windmill. Contributions can be sent via paypal to alk58@cornell.edu or mailed/dropped off to Gene.