May 27, 1944 – August 21, 2023
Sister Karen Ann Shults (Sister David Marie) died on August 21, 2023 at the age of 79 in the 59th year of her religious life. Sister Karen was born on May 27, 1944 in Syracuse, New York, the daughter of John and Margaret Shults. Sister Karen entered the Sisters of St. Joseph on September 15, 1963. She earned her bachelor of science in nursing from Russell Sage College in Troy, New York fulfilling a dream that began in high school.
Sister Karen began her nursing ministry as a staff member on the infirmary floor of St. Joseph’s Provincial House, Albany, New York in 1966. She was recognized immediately for her kindness, compassion and generosity to the elderly and sick of her community. Nothing was too much for Sister Karen. She performed her duties with energy, professionalism and perennial good humor and wit. In 1969, Sister Karen was transferred to St. Mary’s Hospital in Amsterdam, New York. Sister Karen served there for 11 years as a registered nurse bringing comfort, care and spiritual nourishment to her grateful patients.
In 1984, in a testament to her knowledge, commitment and concern for those afflicted with disease and infirmity, Sister Karen was appointed Director of Inter-County Home Care for Catholic Family-Community Services in Herkimer, New York. In this capacity, as always, Sister Karen labored tirelessly for those who were needy and often disenfranchised. In addition to her other responsibilities, Sister Karen also served as Home Health Aide Coordinator. In all that she did, Sister Karen responded to human needs in ways that preserved the dignity of the individuals whom she served.
In 1997, Sister Karen was appointed Province Director of Health Care for her community, a position that she held for 20 years. In this capacity, in addition to advising and accompanying many of her community members on their journey to healing and wholeness, Sister Karen also provided timely updates on topics of good health practices for all.
Sister Karen is survived and mourned by her sister and brother-in-law, Kathy and Kevin O’Leary, her brother David and her religious community. She was predeceased by her sister Kris Toole. Her wake is on Sunday, August 27, 2023 at 7 p.m. followed by her funeral on Monday, August 28, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Provincial House, Albany, New York.
Contributions in Sister Karen’s memory may be made to the Office of Mission Advancement, St. Joseph’s Provincial House, 385 Watervliet-Shaker Road, Latham, New York, 12110 or donate online.
Rest in peace, sister, Karen