Karen A. Esak

Karen A. Esak, 81, of Latrobe passed away Friday, August 2, 2024, at Independence Health System Latrobe Hospital surrounded by her loved ones. She was born April 16, 1943, in Pittsburgh, the only daughter of the late Joseph P. and Marie A. (Burt) Braunstein. Karen worked up to her illness at Latrobe Wal-Mart. She had a full life of travel and exciting adventures. She had a knack for making friends. Her family was everything. In addition to her parents, Karen was preceded in death by a brother and his wife, Robert and Margo Braunstein, and her husband George Smith. She is survived by her daughters, Renee A. Meager (Bill) of Latrobe, Tawnee M. Rust (Dave) of Sebastian, FL and Robin Esak (Patti) of Fredericksburg, VA; her grandchildren, Christian Riley (Jenn), Jason Hunt (Angele) and Alannah Wituschek (Sean); her great-grandchildren, Daniel, Winston, Oliver, Matthew and Camille; her brothers, Paul (June) and Kevin (Roz) Braunstein; cousins and extended family; and her Latrobe Wal-Mart family. All services are private, per Karen’s wishes. Memorial contributions are asked to be given to Karen’s favorite charities, Disabled American Veterans, Wounded Warrior Project, or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. FREDERICK FUNERAL HOME INC., 1543 Ligonier St., Latrobe, PA 15650 entrusted with arrangements. To send condolences, please visit www.FrederickFuneralHome.com.