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1943-2024
Karen Elizabeth (McDonnell) Trowbridge, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on November 24, 2024, at the age of 80.
Born on December 21, 1943, Karen was the firstborn daughter of Walter and Dorothy McDonnell, in Jersey City, NJ. She attended Our Lady of Assumption School in Wood-Ridge, NJ, Immaculate Conception High School in Lodi, NJ and Mount Mercy College in Pittsburgh, PA. Growing up, she spent her summers at the Jersey Shore, where she developed her love of the beach.
Karen met the love of her life, Robert Trowbridge, in 1961, embarking on a journey of over 6 decades together. They were married in 1964 at St. Paul’s Church in Wellesley, MA and recently celebrated their 60th anniversary, one month prior. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising three daughters–Eliza, Alexis, and Molly–and one son, Peter.
Karen was a devoted grandmother of 10 grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense joy. Her love for them was unmatched, and she cherished every moment spent with them.
Karen had a passion for gardening, playing tennis and spending time at the beach. She found peace working in her vegetable garden at Greeley Park and combing the shores of Crane’s Beach and Martha’s Vineyard.
A dedicated preschool teacher, Karen retired after over 30 years of shaping young minds and hearts at White Wing School. Her passion for her community extended beyond the classroom; she was an active volunteer in Nashua at the American Red Cross and a local food pantry, always giving her time and energy to those in need.
Karen’s love for tennis was not just a hobby but a testament to her active and spirited nature. She played in many leagues and tournaments and was a former coach of the Nashua High girls tennis team.
Karen is survived by her devoted husband, Robert; her children, Eliza Morris (and her husband, Chris) of Olga, WA, Alexis Scavetta (and her husband, Michael) of Littleton, NH, Peter Trowbridge (and his wife, Juliana) of Nashua, NH, and Molly Miller (and her husband, Kyle) of Newburyport, MA; as well as her 10 cherished grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings, Richard McDonnell and Linda Chapman.
Karen’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, family, and community. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
A Catholic funeral mass to celebrate Karen’s life will be held at St. Christopher’s Parish, 62 Manchester Street, Nashua, NH, on Thursday, December 5th at 10:00 in the morning. Family and close friends are invited to attend.