Karen (Lutsko) Handel

Karen R. (Lutsko) Handel, 71, of Portage died peacefully on July 18, 2024,  at home surrounded by loving family. Born September 16, 1952, in Johnstown, becoming the 20th child of Joseph and Anna (Mitchell) Lutsko. Preceded in death by parents, husband James "Jinks" Handel Jr., 9 brothers: Joseph, Charles, Edward, William, Robert, James, Gary, Larry and Richard; and 8 sisters: Helen, Joanne, Margaret, Jean, Darlene, Carol, Peggy, and Judy. Karen was very proud to be from a family of “21 children with no twins”. Karen is survived by son, James Handel III (wife Tammy) of Derry and daughter, Jaime Rose (husband Bryan) of Portage; bonus daughter Sarah Leventry; grandchildren Caitlyn, Jake, Bailey, Liam, Zach, and Blaise; brothers Allen Lutsko (Connie) and Randy Lutsko (Donna); and sister Marilyn Noel (Ken); numerous nieces and nephews and her beloved Rottweiler, Abby. Karen was employed at the Portage cleaners, but her true joy was spending time with her family and friends. She enjoyed crafts, camping, and fishing. The family would like to extend appreciation to the staff at Gentiva Hospice for helping  through such a difficult time, especially Steph, Keesha, and Chaplain Tim. Friends and family are invited for a memorial service and celebration of life Monday, July 22, from 3-6 p.m. at the Serenko-Claar Funeral Home, PC, Portage where funeral services will be held at 3 p.m., Pastor Jerry Zuvers, officiating. Committal will be private. Online condolences may be made at serenkoclaarfuneralhome.com.

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