Hornell, New York

Karen H. Gemmell – 74 – of 7115 North Main St. Ext., Hornell, died early Friday morning (November 3, 2023) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, following a brief illness.

Born in Hornell on June 14, 1949, she was the daughter of Frank & Ethel (Stone) Wyant.

Karen grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1967). She had been employed briefly as a secretary at the former Goodyear Tire in Hornell and as a saleslady at JC Penny Store in Hornell and later as a secretary at Beneficial Finance in Hornell. For about 6 years, Karen worked in the assessor’s office at the Hornell City Building and eventually moved down stairs and served as payroll clerk for the City of Hornell. She retired following 23 years of service to the Hornell Community.

In her younger years, Karen was a member of the Westminster Presbyterian Church on Washington St., Hornell. She was an avid reader and especially enjoyed reading mystery novels and romance novels. She also loved spending time in the kitchen cooking & baking and experimenting with new recipes.

Karen was most happy simply being with her entire family. Throughout the years, she absolutely loved attending her children & grandchildren’s sporting events such as baseball, football and especially wrestling. Time spent with her family was precious and she tried to never miss a game or sporting event. She was their #1 Fan.

In addition to her parents, Karen was preceded in death by her brother, Frank Wyant; her sister, Linda VanSicle; her granddaughter, Brittini Gemmell.

She was married on September 2, 1967 to John Gemmell who survives. Also surviving are 2 sons, Kevin (Carol) Gemmell of Knoxville, PA and John (Kristi) Gemmell of Arkport; 4 grandsons, Ryan, Aidan,
Cael and Evan; along with 4 great-grandchildren; nieces & nephews.

The family of Karen H. Gemmell will receive friends on Friday, November 17, 2023 from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A Memorial Service will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 6:00 PM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.

Karen’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to the Hornell Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843. Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.