Obituary

Karen P. Wagner, born October 11, 1954, at Frankford Hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, made her peaceful transition on September 22, 2026, surrounded by love.

Karen was the beloved adopted daughter of Patricia and Frederick Wagner, who predeceased her, along with her oldest brother, Rick Wagner. She was also preceded in death by her mother-in-law, Blanca Ortiz-Cruickshank, and her sister-in-law, Zorahida Groll.

Karen is survived by the love of her life, Lessdy “Les” Montgomery-Wagner, with whom she shared a devoted and joyful life; her beloved puppy, Lorenzo; her children, Ricardo and Alexis Montgomery; her brother, Robert Wagner; and her extended family, including sisters-in-law Tabatha Vincent and Marilyn Arroyo and brothers-in-law Joseph Ortiz and Ivan Catalan. She is also survived by her beloved nephews and their families: Rick Wagner Jr., his wife, Kiersten, and their sons, Keith and Conner; Dr. Scott Wagner, his wife, Jodee, and their sons, Erik and Luke; and Todd Wagner and his sons, William and Fred.

From childhood, Karen cherished her time at her Nan’s house in Ocean City, New Jersey. Those visits were filled with happy memories, family, and the simple joys she carried with her throughout her life. Ocean City remained a special place in her heart.

After briefly living in Atlantic City and working for the Casino Control Commission, Karen found her way to Ocean Grove. There, she became an integral part of the community she loved. With her creativity, determination, and unmistakable personal style, she painted historic homes, restored furniture, formed lifelong friendships, and successfully managed several businesses.

The greatest chapter of Karen’s life began in the fall of 2001, when she met Les. Their love grew into a devoted partnership filled with companionship, laughter, shared adventures, and countless treasured moments. Together, they created a life rooted in love, loyalty, and the everyday memories that become most precious.

Karen had a rare gift for making people feel welcome, valued, and cared for. At The Center in Asbury Park, she worked as a chef and later continued serving as a volunteer. She gave far more than her culinary talents. She gave her time, compassion, humor, and generous spirit, caring deeply for the staff, volunteers, and residents and making those around her feel at home.

Food was one of the ways Karen expressed her love. She cooked with generosity and heart, understanding that a meal could be much more than food. It could bring people together, offer comfort, create connection, and make someone feel remembered.

Karen will be remembered for her spunky spirit, remarkable sense of humor, warmth, generosity, and enormous heart. She had a way of making people feel comfortable and connected, often bringing lightness and laughter into the room. Her presence was genuine, memorable, and deeply comforting to those who knew her.

Her legacy lives on in the community she cherished, the homes and spaces she helped restore, the friendships she formed, the people she welcomed, and the love she gave so freely. It lives on in the family she adored, the memories she created, and the many lives she touched through her kindness, humor, and care.

Karen will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in the hearts of Les, her family, her friends, and all those fortunate enough to have known and loved her.