Karn-Joanne Helene, age 76, of Alden, NY passed away March 6, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. A firecracker of a woman, she brought a spark of exuberance to everyone she encountered, and a warm embrace to those lucky enough to enter her orbit. Perpetually in motion, only a prolonged fight with cancer could even begin to slow her down.

Born on May 9, 1949 in Buffalo, NY, Joanne was the daughter of Anthony Cherry and Charlotte (Fischer) Cherry. She grew up in Clarence Center and was a graduate of Clarence High School. Joanne later graduated from Erie Community College as a Registered Nurse. She spent much of her career working for Erie 1 BOCES as a school nurse at Maryvale High School, supporting special education students.

Joanne married William J. Karn, Sr. on June 8, 1968 and raised their three children, William, Jr. (wife Jean), of Lancaster, NY, Christopher of Inglis, FL, and Kevin of Golden, CO. In addition to her children, Joanne is survived by her grandson, Kyle. Her siblings include the late Richard Cherry (wife Margaret) and Dennis Cherry (wife Laura).

No prior visitation.  A funeral service to honor and celebrate Joanne's life will be held at Lancaster Community Baptist Church, located at 520 Ransom Road in Lancaster, on Friday, March 13, 2026 at 10am. Friends and family are invited to attend to pay their respects and share their memories of this remarkable, kind soul.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joanne's memory to the Cheektowaga Lions Club or Hospice Buffalo.  Arrangements by the Charles Meyer Funeral Home.  Share your condolences at meyerfuneralhome.com