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302-478-7100 Wilmington & Hockessin, DE

Karen Lee DeCostanza

Karen Lee DeCostanza, age 72, of Dover, DE, formerly of N. DuPont Hwy, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at Regal Heights Rehabilitation and Healthcare.

Born in Chester, PA, Karen graduated from Chester High School, Class of 1970. She held various positions at law offices in Wilmington, DE, but found her role as an Activities Coordinator at Shipley Manor the most rewarding, where her creativity and dedication brought joy to many.

Karen was preceded in death by her husband, Anthony Francis DeCostanza, who passed away in 2020. She was a loving mother and friend, known for her warmth, mischievous sense of humor, and kindness. Karen had a talent for sewing and crocheting, which she enjoyed immensely. She and her husband Tony loved their walks with their dog Mimi at Silver Lake Park, where they enjoyed feeding the ducks and squirrels. Karen maintained a positive outlook on life and was always a very pleasant lady, no matter the circumstances. Her generosity and uplifting personality left an indelible mark on everyone who knew her.

She is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Mooney, of West Chester, PA; her son-in-law, Ryan Mooney, of West Chester, PA; her granddaughter, Lilly Ward, of West Chester, PA; and her grandson, Rowan Mooney, of West Chester, PA.

At Karen’s request, services will be private.

Donations in her memory can be made to Brandywine Valley SPCA, 1757 Horsepond Road, Dover, DE 19901.

Funeral Services

At Karen’s request, services will be private.

Condolences

    Ryan Mooney writes,
    Karen was a jovial trickster — always quick with a hearty laugh, a wicked smirk, and a genuine remark of gratitude. Sending her, and all that miss her, love.
    01/22/2025 09:21 pm
    Lori Wilhide lit a candle and writes,
    Karen and I became friends in the late 80's. I haven't seen her in many years, but I always remembered her with fondness. She was so kind and fun. I'm really sad to read of her passing. My condolences to her family and friends.
    01/22/2025 10:36 pm
    Kathy writes,
    Dearest Kimberly, Ryan, Lilly & Rowan I’m so very sorry to hear about your loss. You each have my heartfelt sympathy. Your Mom sounds like she would have been a wonderful person to know. (Based on Ryan’s message.) I hope in the coming days you’ll remember smiles and happy moments. With each memory bringing its own comfort. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Sending my love, Kathy Pepin
    01/22/2025 10:56 pm
    Linda Deaton lit a candle and writes,
    I am so sorry to learn of Karen’s passing. I met Karen many years ago in the 80’s when we worked together at Ticor/Chicago Title Insurance Co in Wilmington. She was such a wonderful, caring, delightful person to work with, always the best sense of humor! Was so glad to reconnect with her on FB many years later after I had moved to Florida. My sincerest condolences to Kim and her entire family, I know she will be greatly missed.
    01/23/2025 06:20 am
    Andy Daller lit a candle and writes,
    My older sister and Kim were great childhood friends, and my mom and Karen became fast friends as well. I was always tagging along, and have wonderful memories of my mom and Karen’s meet-ups at Tri-State mall, especially at Joanne Fabrics😊. I remember Karen as one of the most down-to-earth people ever; always smiling, and VERY slyly funny. Prayers for peace and comfort to you and your family, Kim.
    01/23/2025 07:11 am
    Bonnie Hardman lit a candle and writes,
    RIP Miss Karen. You will be missed. I hope you’re up on heaven crocheting away. Condolences to her family.
    01/23/2025 07:24 am
    pamela haass lit a candle and writes,
    Met Karen and Tony and their dog at Spences in Dover. They were always there early and buying. Sold lots of spices and other things to them. Can't think of the dogs name, was always available for pets and a bite of my husband's sandwich. Remained in touch on Facebook after my stroke. Lovely lady, glad she is reunited with Tony.
    01/23/2025 08:10 am
    Judy Mooney writes,
    While I never met Karen I’ve heard many stories of her from Kim and Ryan. I appreciate her resilience to life and the memories she left. Kim is one of the best people I have ever met and I know that who she is certainly the influence of her mother . May Karen rest in peace knowing she made a difference in many lives, even those she never knew. Judy Mooney
    01/23/2025 03:32 pm
    Vera Dambro lit a candle and writes,
    Karen and I and her cousin Holly have been friends for over 50 years. Karen and I talked every day, I sure will miss her. Karen was a very kind and generous person to everyone.She tried helping everyone that needed it. Till we meet again Bubba
    01/23/2025 06:57 pm
    Marianne Schwalbe writes,
    Karen and I went to 6th grade together and then 4 years of school at Chester High School class of 1970. We in classes together. She was always funny and we had many laughs together. I also visited her home on 22nd st. I’m so sorry for your loss . My sincere condolences. Sending prayers and hugs to the family. Marianne Oliver Schwalbe.
    01/24/2025 06:36 pm
    Noel Andrews writes,
    Kim, Ryan, Lilly and Rowan, my deepest sympathy for the loss of Karen. Karen and my mom were best friends . My childhood was going to any mall with my mom and my brother and Kimmy and Karen. We went to Wildwood, carnivals , malls , kiddie world to see Santa , spent time in Maryland where we rented a row boat and Kim realized she was not a good swimmer and my mom had to jump in and save her because Karen didn’t swim. Karen and Kim are FAMILY. Karen had a pure , kind , easy going spirit . She took great care of her husband by making him dinner at 2am when he would come home from work and had a special bond with Kim as we grew up . I love you Karen and I pray for you to be up there in heaven with your loved ones and my mother . I’m glad to see , without ever a complaint, that you are pain free and restored to new life in heaven . You are one of the most special people that I knew . Every time I saw you it was “ Well, Well “ a term you used to greet me . Watch over us and protect Kimmy and her family . You will be remembered and deeply missed. 🩷. - Noel ( Michulka )Andrews.
    01/26/2025 08:37 am

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