Karen Marie (Kriz) Benedict, 69, from Bradford, PA peacefully departed on Saturday, May 4, 2024, in the comfort of her own home.

Born on January 26, 1955, in Bradford, she was the cherished daughter of George Kriz and Elnora Ammons Kriz-Morgan. She graduated from Limestone High School in 1973.
 
On May 7, 1977, at St. Patrick’s Church in Limestone, NY, she married her devoted partner of 47 years, William M. Benedict, who continues to hold her close in his heart.

Karen lovingly cared for her four children and spent many years working as a self-taught seamstress, dressmaker, quilter, and crafter. She diligently managed the finances for her husband’s business and lent her expertise to organizing estate sales for members of the community.

A devout Catholic her entire life, she recently enjoyed participating in the St. Francis Bell Choir and formerly served as president of the Catholic Girls Club of Our Mother of Perpetual Help Church in Lewis Run. She spent countless hours volunteering for St. Bernard and Central Christian schools and supervising many fish dinners and pancake breakfasts for the church community. 

Additionally, Karen took pleasure in playing bridge and hosting bridge club gatherings. She enjoyed spending time with her husband on home renovation projects, attending car and tractor shows, and exploring antique shops and flea markets.

Also surviving are her mother, 94-year-old Elnora Kriz-Morgan of Limestone; two sons, Sam (Kelli) Benedict of Pittsburgh and Gregory Benedict of Bradford; two daughters, Kristie Benedict of Buffalo and Carolyn (Josh) Curcio of Bradford; four grandchildren: Eliana, Nathan, Treyton, and Ryan; two sisters: Christine (Jerry) van der Horst of Myrtle Beach, SC, and Theresa (Jim) Stoddard of Limestone, NY; two brothers: Ronald (Mary Jo) Kriz of Northborough, MA, and Thomas (Jill) Kriz of Venetia, PA; along with numerous other extended family members who hold her dear.

She was preceded in death by her father George Kriz, her stepfather, Keith Morgan, and one brother, Steven (Kim) Kriz.

Family will receive friends on Friday, May 10, 2024, from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm at the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc., 372 East Main Street. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday at Noon at St. Francis Church with Rev. John J. Jacquel, Pastor as Celebrant. Burial will be in St. Bernard Cemetery.

In closing, let’s honor Karen’s legacy of creativity and innovation, whether it was through her sewing wizardry or her home improvement antics. If you wish to pay tribute, consider making a donation to St. Bernard’s Church or a charity close to your heart.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com.