Grandma Roper always referred to dying as “going your merry way “and her eldest grandchild, Karen Roper Janway went her merry way Friday July 24, 2020.
Karen was blessed with a peaceful passing in the comfort of her home. After spending the earlier part of her final week at a beloved cabin with her only sister along with her son and grandsons, Karen slipped away Friday evening, without pain or medicine, with loved ones by her side.
Karen was born to Jim & Joyce Roper on June 15, 1951 in Raton. Those who went “their merry way before her, included her paternal grandmother Margaret Hay Roper, her maternal grandparents Ernest and Minnie Brunelli and her parents Jim and Joyce Roper.
Karen is survived by the absolute joys of her life, her only child Brian “Chase” Sherman and two grandsons Kaden and Liam Sherman all of Albuquerque and her three younger siblings Stephen Roper (Ernesto Nieto) of Chicago; Mary Lynn Roper (Sheryl Paloni); Mark Roper (Monica) all of Albuquerque; and three nephews Daniel Roper, Jacob Roper and Timothy McKee; along with numerous great-nephews and one great-niece.
Karen was a 1969 graduate of Raton High School and a 1973 graduate of Eastern New Mexico University. Karen found her professional niche in life doing what came naturally to her, helping people. 20 years at PNM in HR and benefits followed by 22 years as Director of Benefits for Presbyterian Hospital. One of Karen’s proudest professional moments came after retirement when her replacement was a person she had personally hired and mentored, in addition to the fact that the entire benefits teams remained in place carrying on the values and policies she had implemented.
Services for Karen Roper Janway will be at Daniels Wyoming Chapel Monday, August 3 at 11am for those unable to attend a zoom broadcast of the services will be provided https://us02web.zoom.us/j/6902207513 , please go to www.danielsfuneral.com for more details Inurnment of ashes will with her mother at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Raton on Wednesday August 5 at noon with classmate and friend Frank Cimino officiating.
To the Roper “kids”:
Thinking about you as you grieve Karen’s death.
Recall all those special times together.
I do remember your Grandma Margaret…quite a woman.
And your mother who this photo of Karen evokes for me.
Take care of your selves.
lovingly,
Cheryl Gay Gatti
To Marylynn and Mark, I remember your mom. Am struck by how much Karen looked like her. My heart goes out to the whole family. Peace be with you. Kyle French