Karen L. Atwell             “beloved wife, mother, sister, and grandmother”

LITTLE GENESEE, NY—Karen L. Atwell, 62, a longtime resident of Little Genesee, passed away unexpectedly with her loving husband by her side on Friday, April 12, 2024, in the Olean General Hospital, Olean, NY.

Born on Sunday, September 10, 1961 in Wellsville, she was a daughter of Paul W. and Lucymae Truman Atwell.  She was married to Tom Johnson for almost 40 years.

Karen was a graduate of Bolivar High School, a graduate of the former Olean Business Institute in Olean, and was also a graduate of the Continental School of Beauty in Olean.

Karen was kind and loving person.  She was briefly employed by Arc in Belmont as a resident aide until an injury at work forced her retirement.

She enjoyed her adopted families and kids.  She also enjoyed doing yard work.  She loved her many animals throughout the years.  Karen’s greatest love was her family, especially her grandchildren.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband; a son, Burton M. (Christie) Little of Great Valley; a daughter, Kelly L. Atwell of Little Genesee; two grandchildren, Kayla N. (Wyatt) Little and Kent M. Little; four siblings, Thomas M. Atwell of Olean, Cathy E. Atwell of Bolivar, Carol L. Atwell of Bolivar, and Kevin C. (Brenda) Atwell of Taylor, PA; Eric Beach, whom Karen considered a son; and several nieces and nephews, including Jeremy Atwell.

Karen was predeceased by her parents and a nephew, Christopher Atwell.

In keeping with Karen’s wishes, there will be no public services.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Karen’s name may be made to SPCA in Cattaraugus County, 2944 Rte. 16, Olean, NY 14760.

Karen’s family entrusted her care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, PA.

To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Karen, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.