Karen Elizabeth (Kirschner) Schirra

On Thursday, March 19, 2026, Karen Elizabeth (Kirschner) Schirra peacefully returned home after 78 years of embodying strength, perseverance, compassion, and love to all around her.

Karen was preceded in death by her beloved daughter Susan and her ex-husband Harry.

Carrying on with heavy but grateful hearts are those who knew and loved her best – her adoring life partner of 21 years, Thomas (Ace) Macurak; her beloved sons, Greg Schirra of San Diego and Russ Schirra of Las Vegas; her devoted brother Robert (Nancy) Kirschner; her cherished grandchildren, Nicole (Patrick) Hansen and Wesley McClean, young River and Rory Schirra, and her sweet, little great granddaughter, Mackenzie. Missing Karen, too, is her “adopted” family, Amy and Shawn Brennan.

In addition to these beloved family members are many others who are blessed to have known Karen – the extended Macurak and Schirra families, as well as a multitude of friends.

Karen was born on November 25, 1947, at Columbia Hospital in Wilkinsburg, raised in Turtle Creek, PA, and graduated from Turtle Creek High School in 1965. She attended Robert Morris Business School, and subsequently worked at the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Library and Information Sciences for several years.

After the birth of her children, Karen left the workforce to raise them. In later years, she re-entered the workforce to work at Walmart and then for the Hampton School District until retirement.

Karen battled cancer for almost 30 years, and never let the struggle diminish her spirit.

She died the way she lived …with grace, hope, compassion, dignity, and courage up through her final breath.

Karen Schirra exemplifies a life well lived and an inspiration to all.

As per her wishes, there will be no viewing nor services.

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