Karen Walker

Karen Walker, age 70 years, passed away on Thursday evening, October 17, 2024, in West Caldwell Township, NJ, surrounded by her loved ones. Born July 18, 1954, in Newark, NJ, she was the daughter of the late John and Miriam (Lanno) Walker. She grew up in Belleville, NJ from 1954-1982, and had also formerly resided in Millington, NJ from 1982-2006. She lived in Hunterdon County, NJ since 2006, where she enjoyed the rural peace and tranquility. 

After earning her bachelor's degree, her professional journey included roles as both an insurance underwriter and newspaper columnist for The Bernardsville News.

Beyond her career, Karen's personality was one that radiated warmth and kindness. She found immense joy in making others happy, often through thoughtful gifts such as local cider, pies, and various tasty treats. Known for her resilience, she approached life's challenges with a tough spirit, never complaining about her circumstances. This strength was a testament to her character and endeared her to many.

Karen had a deep love for animals, which included horses, goats, dogs, cats, and even bearded dragons. Her affection for these creatures was matched only by her fondness for family trips to Cape May, NJ and Lake George, NY. In her leisure time, Karen expressed her creativity through canvas oil painting, showcasing her artistic talents.

The following column she wrote perfectly encapsulates everything that brought her joy in life. It was titled...

"A gift of time, kids and horses" The Bernardsville News, Thursday, May 25, 2000

The only gift I really wanted for Mother's Day was to go out to the barn, and with no time constraints, ride my horse. 

With many other obligations I haven't been taking the time to ride as much as I'd like. But lately, I've realized that nothing makes me happier and relieves stress better than time spent with my horse. All my problems seem to be put in their proper perspective and when I leave the barn it's with an entirely different frame of mind.

As I headed out Route 78 with my 11-year-old daughter, Kristin, and 6-year-old son, Christopher, in tow, I looked at my watch thinking that we'd left much later than I had planned and already counted out what time we'd be arriving back home.

The 30-minute ride was much more pleasant than usual as we ended up playing games with Latin words and their definitions. Now this was unusual in itself since Latin isn't exactly my daughter's favorite subject. But we all had fun guessing at the answers. 

The trip seemed to be over in a matter of moments, and when we got to the barn, I didn't really care what time it was or when we'd be getting home. I just thought nothing could be nicer than a ride in the field with my daughter on her pony. 

As we were riding, she told me she didn't have a store-bought gift for me and hoped I'd like what she made. She didn't realize that the best gift of all was riding with her on a spectacular day through a beautiful field, talking and enjoying our time together. As I watched a pony, a young girl, and a little boy all having fun together in a field I thought how special this day turned out for all of us. 

Karen was predeceased by her parents and her beloved daughter, Kristin Walker Mastellone, who left us in 2018. In addition, she was predeceased by many of her beloved animals: Her horses, Hector, Joey, Goosebumps, Jacknife, and Danny; her dogs, Magic, Wizard, Midnight and Bella; her goats, Goaty, Big White, Little Black, Mommy Goat, Baby Goat, and Grandma Goat; her cats, Yoda, Friend Cat, and Lucky; as well as her bearded dragon, Beardy. 

She is mourned by her beloved son, Christopher Walker Mastellone; her sister, Diane Walker; and her sister and brother-in-law, Judith and Edward Rebenack. Additionally, she is survived by her former husband, Joseph Mastellone; her cherished horse, Lady Corina; and her loyal dog, Frederick.

A Mass of Christian Burial, officiated by Father Paul Michalowski, will be held at Our Lady of Victories Church, 1005 County Road 519, Baptistown, NJ, on Monday, October 21, 2024, at 11:00 AM, followed by a graveside service and burial, next to her daughter Kristin, at Rosemont Cemetery, 100 County Road 519, Rosemont, NJ at 12:00 PM Noon. There are no calling hours.

Her life was a tapestry woven with love, resilience, and joy, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, memorials contributions may be made to Last Chance Ranch, 9 Beck Road, Quakertown, PA 18951 or by clicking here: Last Chance Ranch Animal Rescue.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822. For further information or to send an online condolence please visit her guestbook and memorial page at www.holcombefisher.com.