Obituary

Karen Louise (Ribblett) Simons, 82, of Westmont, passed away surrounded by family on September 8th, 2025, in Davidsville, Pa. Karen was born December 31, 1942, daughter of the late Melvin and Dorthea (Eck) Ribblett, in Johnstown, PA.

Preceded in death by husband, John. Karen is survived by children, Cheryl of Groton, Vermont, Lisa and husband Steve Butcher of Bristol, Rhode Island, Kirsten and husband Matt Houghton of Carlisle, PA.; grandchildren, Chelsea Funk, Hunter (Stephen) Kupchella, Meghan (Colin) Kinnery, Brendan (Sophia) Butcher, Andrew (Abigail) Houghton, Madison Houghton; great grandchild Carson Kupchella. Also loved extended family, Kameran (Jessica) Sarlati, Bijan (Bree) Sarlati, Jared (Kate) Gullbergh, Ronan, Leon, Finn, Kian Sarlati.

Karen was an adoring grandmother, making each grandchild feel like her “favorite.” She doted on them by taking them on adventures and making her special “roll up” pancakes.

Raised in Johnstown, PA. Karen studied Theology at Gettysburg College. While working a summer job at Floradale Resort in Shelby, Michigan, Karen “Candy” fell in love with Dune Scooter Johnny. They had a beautiful courtship on the sand dunes of Lake Michigan, attended Michigan State together and were married in December 1962 – a union that lasted over 50 years.

Karen championed women’s rights, volunteering with the League of Women Voters, Junior League, and PEO, trailblazing to become the first female Chairman of the Board of Hanover Township and breaking the financial world’s glass ceiling as Vice President of Mid-Am bank. She mentored and empowered women, instilling strength and perseverance in her daughters as well. “Strong women stick together.”

As an avid traveler, Karen loved exploring Europe, especially Italy. She taught her family the value of spending money on experiences instead of things.

Karen’s entertaining skills were honed by her many moves, when she quickly realized the best way to make friends in new places was to host a great party. She was known for her Kentucky Derby party and Coquilles St. Jacques. She loved entertaining friends of all religions and political affiliations and engaging in intelligent discourse. She wasn’t afraid to ruffle some feathers with her opinions, but she always appreciated listening to other ideas.

Karen’s contagious zeal for life will live on in many who knew her.

Friends will be received Friday September 12th from 10 a.m. until time of service at 12 p.m. at First Lutheran Church, 415 Vine St., Johnstown, PA 15901. Interment to follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Laurel View Village Caring Fund through laurelviewvillage.com

Arrangements in care of Hindman Funeral Homes & Crematory, Inc., “Exclusive Provider of Veterans and Family Memorial Care.” Condolences may be made at HindmanFuneralHomes.com