KAREN A. GARDINER-HARVEY

LATHAM - Karen Ann Gardiner-Harvey, 83, of Latham, New York, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2026, at St. Peter's Hospice Inn in Albany.

Born on October 10, 1942, in Flushing, Queens, NY, Karen was the daughter of the late Lester Miller and Miriam Britt Pembrook. She was raised with a strong sense of compassion, service, and determination that would guide her throughout a remarkable life dedicated to helping others.

Karen was a graduate of the Academy of the Holy Names, Class of 1960. She earned her degree in Radiologic Technology from Albany Medical Center School of Radiology in 1962 and began her professional career as an X-Ray Technician at Albany Medical Center Hospital, Memorial Hospital, and several physicians' offices throughout the Capital Region. Her passion for learning led her to continue her education, earning a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from SUNY Empire State College in 1988 and later a Master's Degree in Community Psychology from Russell Sage College.

Throughout her career, Karen distinguished herself in the fields of marketing, corporate sales, and business entrepreneurship. She became a partner with Elm Associates before founding her own consulting firm, SUCCESSWORKS, where she used her expertise and encouragement to help others achieve personal and professional success.

Karen's commitment to serving her community began early in life. As a young woman, she volunteered with Refer Switchboard, which later became Project Equinox. With the support of local leaders, she helped establish Touch Switchboard in Clifton Park, an organization focused on substance abuse assistance that evolved into the well-known community outreach program CAPTAIN. Her dedication to helping others left a lasting impact throughout the Capital Region.

Following her retirement from business, Karen embraced another passion—health and wellness. She earned certifications through the National Exercise Trainers Association (NETA), became a certified yoga instructor, and achieved Master Instructor certification in water fitness through the United States Water Fitness Association (USWFA). She shared her enthusiasm for healthy living as a fitness instructor at the Ciccotti Center in Colonie, where she inspired countless participants through her energy, encouragement, and friendship.

A devoted parishioner of Our Lady of Assumption Church in Latham, Karen treasured her faith, family, and many lifelong friendships. She enjoyed splitting her time between her longtime home in Latham and her winter residence in Naples, Florida.

In addition to her late parents, Karen was predeceased by her husband, Ronald Steven Harvey. She is survived by her son, Christopher Michael (Kathleen) Gardiner; her stepson, Jordan Harvey; her brother, Lester Britt Pembrook; her grandchildren, Christopher (Melissa) Gardiner II, Michael (Whitney) Gardiner, Katherine (Michael) Gardiner; her great-grandchildren, Alexander, Benjamin, Christopher III, Grace, and Ethan; as well as several extended family members and dear friends.

Karen will be remembered for her intelligence, entrepreneurial spirit, generosity, dedication to service, and unwavering belief in the potential of others. Whether through her professional endeavors, community outreach, fitness instruction, or simple acts of kindness, she made a meaningful difference in the lives of countless people.

Karen's family would like to acknowledge and express their sincere gratitude to the nurses and staff of St. Peter's Hospice Inn for their exceptional care and compassion.

In accordance with her wishes, services will be private. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of The Dufresne & Cavanaugh Funeral Home, Latham.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to CAPTAIN Community Human Services at www.captaincares.org or a charity of one's choice in Karen's memory.

For further information or to express a sentiment of condolence, please visit www.dufresneandcavanaugh.com.