Karen L. Kenison

Karen A. Kenison, 71, passed away peacefully on November 15, 2025, in her hometown of Saranac Lake, NY. Her passing closes the chapter on a life marked by resilience, service, and a deep connection to the people and community around her.

Born on July 26, 1954, in Saranac Lake, Karen grew up surrounded by the North Country’s mountains and lakes, places she carried in her heart throughout her life. She graduated from Saranac Lake High School in 1973. Soon after, she made the proud decision to serve her country by joining the United States Army. Karen approached her military service with dedication and discipline, and it remained one of her greatest accomplishments. She often reflected on this chapter with honor and gratitude for the opportunity to serve.

After completing her time in the Army, Karen continued giving back in her own meaningful ways. She participated in various community programs and local organizations, finding purpose in helping others and staying connected to the place she called home. Whether volunteering, lending a hand, or reaching out in small but heartfelt ways, she valued being part of a supportive community. Karen also enjoyed simple pleasures—especially shopping. It brought her joy, whether she was finding something special or just enjoying the time out.

Family was always at the center of Karen’s life. She is survived by her two children, Kristy Arroyo of Plattsburgh, NY, and Joseph Kenison and his partner, Sarah Mills, of Chateaugay, NY. Life brought its share of challenges, but her children remained a constant source of pride and love for her.

Karen was a grandmother who cared deeply for her grandchildren: Charles Doty and his wife Meagan of Plattsburgh, NY; Lauralynn Doty; Morgan Dumas; Tyrese Arroyo; Canyon Arroyo; Shanika Arroyo; and Cameron Kenison. She is also survived by several great-grandchildren who added joy, laughter, and light to her later years. Each of them held a meaningful place in her heart.

She leaves behind her sister, Colleen Reed-Hough of Saranac Lake, NY, and her brother, Kevin Reed, and his spouse, Mel, of Liverpool, NY. The bonds she shared with her siblings were rooted in shared history, strength, and the unspoken closeness that grows over a lifetime.

Karen was predeceased by her parents, Calvin and Delores Reed; her sister, Christine Mock; her brother-in-law, Donald Hough; and her grandson, Malakai. Though Karen carried these losses heavily at times, her family finds comfort in knowing she is now reunited with the loved ones she missed.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home in Saranac Lake. A celebration of Karen’s life will be held on Saturday, November 22, at 1:00 p.m at the Algonquin Apartments Community Room in Saranac Lake. Her family invites those who knew her to come together, share stories, and honor her memory. Karen will be remembered for her service, her her quiet determination, her love for her family, and the impact she had on those around her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. Her quiet determination, her love for her family, and the impact she had on those around her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Family and friends can also share their condolences and memories at fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.