Karen Sue Waldrop

Karen Sue Waldrop, 67, of New Holland, PA, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, October 23, 2024. Karen was born on October 11, 1957, in Lancaster, PA, predeceased by her parents, Thomas William (Bill) Waldrop and Martha Elizabeth (Rineer) Waldrop. She graduated from Garden Spot High School, New Holland, PA, in 1975. She graduated with a degree in Geography from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, in 1980 and a master’s degree in Geography in 1983.

Karen worked as a Database Administrator at General Electric, Valley Forge, PA, and also worked for The City of Alexandria, VA, as an IT professional before retiring in 2016 after over 30 years of service. Karen loved to travel, quilt, and read. History was a passion, particularly the Civil War era, and also enjoyed spirited political discussions. She especially enjoyed traveling out west with her Dad. Their trips were legendary with lots of very funny stories. She was a devoted daughter, sister, aunt and friend to many. She loved spoiling her nieces and nephews and feeding them whatever they wanted when they spent weekends with her.

Her family will be forever grateful for the fun, support, kindness and generosity of Karen. She is survived by her sisters, Debra Tarrant (Kevin), Beverly Halpin (Jim), Gail Ertzgard (Jim); cousin Sue Bechtold Groff (Rick) who she considered a sister; cousin Barbara Rineer Milligan (Bill); nieces Erin Espino (Mark), Hannah Ertzgard, Greta Verma (Sunil); nephews Drew Tarrant (Anna), Will Tarrant (Kathleen); great nieces Maddy, Avery, Ann Lanier, and great nephews Landon, and Jamie.

Shortly after her retirement, Karen suffered with several health concerns and since then has worked through the many related physical and health challenges. She lived the last 6 years of her life as a resident of Garden Spot Village in assisted living, where she made countless friends among the residents, nurses, and staff. Her positive attitude, quick wit, and keen sense of humor was admired by all, and was inspirational to many, particularly her family.

A Celebration of Life drop-in gathering will be held on Sunday, November 10, 2024, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 221 East Main Street, New Holland, PA, 17557 from 2-5 PM. Please bring your memories and funny stories of Karen to share.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in her name to Garden Spot Village Benevolent Fund, 433 South Kinzer Avenue, New Holland, PA, 17557, or the New Holland Ambulance, 101 East Franklin Street, New Holland, PA, 17557. The Groff-High Funeral Home, New Holland, is in charge of arrangements. Memories and condolences may be posted online at www.groffeckenroth.com.