Hornell, NY / Rochester, NY
Karen Moretti
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Karen Moretti on August 24, 2024, after a long illness at the age of 76.
A beloved daughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, friend, and deeply loved individual, her loyalty and dedication to her family and friends was unwavering. With great humor, unmatched wit, compassion, and generosity she created lasting relationships in every facet of her life.
A graduate of Hornell Senior High School, Karen earned her Bachelor’s in Sociology in 1982 from SUNY Geneseo.
Her many careers and part-time jobs included owner of Moretti’s Hoagie Shop in Dansville and Moretti’s Pizza Shop in Hornell, bank teller, switchboard operator at St. James Mercy Hospital, ice cream truck driver, pizza deliverer, opened a teen center for the youth of Dansville, cab driver, nighttime delivery person for the Buffalo Evening News, and blackjack dealer.
Karen realized her lifelong dream of living and working in Las Vegas where she became a blackjack dealer and worked at several casinos both on and off the Las Vegas strip. In 2016 due to her illness, she sadly had to bid farewell to her beloved Las Vegas and return to New York.
Prior to Karen’s illness, she enjoyed traveling, playing bingo, attending her favorite music artists’ concerts and Buffalo Bills football games, playing basketball, dancing (and winning many dance contests), singing and playing her ukulele, hosting parties for any occasion, snowmobiling, and riding her motorcycle. She is known for her unique perspective on life leading her (and anyone who happened to be with her) to unimaginable brushes with fame.
She is survived by her sisters Cheryl MacCracken (Greg), Suzanne Minemier (Marty), and brother Richard (Darlene) She also leaves behind many dear nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, great nieces and nephews, and lifelong friends. She is predeceased by her parents Marilynn and Raymond Moretti and siblings Robert and John. Karen took great pride in her family and friendships and will be missed dearly by all.
The family wishes to thank the staff at Kirkhaven Nursing Home for their extraordinary care, kindness, and support.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, October 4, 10:00-12:00 to include a prayer service from 12:00-12:30 at Dagon’s Funeral Home, 38 Church Street, Hornell, NY 14843, followed by a Celebration of Life luncheon at The Main Place, 251 Main Street., Hornell, NY 14843. The family asks that in keeping with Karen’s “fashion” sense, casual attire is appropriate and encouraged for both.
In lieu of flowers and in honor of Karen’s favorite Buffalo Bill, Josh Allen, donations may be made to the Patricia Allen Fund Benefiting John R. Oshei Children’s Hospital (https://www.ochbuffalo.org/foundation/patricia-allen-fund/). Or please make checks payable to CHOB Foundation, 1028 Main Street, 4th Floor, Buffalo NY 14202.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.
Sorry for your loss. I hope you can endure.
She and Ma (Jackie Percey) spent hours traveling, singing, and enjoying each other uniqueness. She was funny and possessed a big heart and happy go lucky personality. My parents would put Jimmy and I on a train heading to Hornell to play with Karen and Robert just for the weekend. It was great. It has been years since I saw her, but I’m sure she still had those traits. Love and prayers for Karen and the Moretti family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Moretti’s as they morn the loss of Karen! I Always remember Karen as a very fun loving person! To the family I would say treasure all the good memories ! They will sustain you in the days ahead ! Sharing the good times will keep Karen alive in your hearts!
May Karen rest in Peace!
🙏🙏💙💙
Yvonne Fagnan Fisher
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Karen. She was a great person and so kind and generous.
My condolences to her family . RIP Karen, my dear old friend. I know it’s been several hard years for you . She will never be forgotten.