Karen Jane Waller

Karen was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, godmother, cousin, teacher, artist, and friend. To those who knew her, she was charismatic, quick-witted, generous, and had an infectious laugh. Her love for travel, art, and family was infused in her every waking moment. Her early career began at People Magazine as a graphic designer, and she later became an art teacher at Bergen County Technical School — her students remember her warmth and expertise. Karen always had something thought-provoking to say, and always kept you on your toes. Her humor, creativity, and zeal for life will be dearly missed by all.

Beloved sister of John Waller and his wife, Denise; Elizabeth Wagner and her husband, Donald; and Jacqueline Waller-Sanchez and her husband, Juan. Loving aunt of Jennifer (Frank), Craig (Jessica), Victoria, Christopher, Matthew (Carmelina), Steven, Sarah, Rebecca (Alan), Jessica (Juan), and Daniel. Cherished great-aunt of Mia, Frankie, Samantha, Boe, Sophia, Carter, Avery, Eliana, and Isabel. She is predeceased by her parents, John and Jane Waller.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at Kugler Community Home for Funerals, 311 5th Street, Saddle Brook, NJ 07663. The funeral service will be held at Kugler‘s on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 10:00 AM, followed by burial in St. Michael’s Cemetery, 120 Saddle River Avenue, South Hackensack, NJ 07606.

“And the memory of everything we have loved remains and returns in the evening of our life. It is not dead, but sleepeth, and it is good to collect a great store of it.” - Vincent van Gogh