Karen Roman Fischer, age 67, a dedicated librarian and longtime resident of Mansfield, Ohio, passed away surrounded by her family on Sunday, November 10, 2024, with the support of Hospice of the Western Reserve. Born on September 20, 1957, in Middletown, Connecticut, Karen was the oldest child of Felix and Katherine (Biggs) Roman.
Karen graduated from Lexington High School with the class of 1975 and went on to earn a Bachelor's degree in History from Muskingum College, followed by a Master's degree in Library Science from Kent State University. Her career began with the Social Security Administration in Cambridge, and she later worked at O'Neil's Department Store (now Macy's), where she met Geoffrey Fischer. Karen uncharacteristically made the first move, and they were married on May 9, 1987. The couple shared 37 years of love and partnership. They settled in Mansfield where they raised their two children: Katherine and Matthew.
Karen was a librarian with the Mansfield Richland County Public Library for over two decades, first serving as an Audio Visual Librarian before becoming part of Collection Development. In this role, she curated the library's music and DVD collections, leaving a lasting impact on generations of readers and viewers. An avid reader, she particularly loved cozy mysteries and was fascinated by English history and the British Royal family.
Karen was a devoted animal lover with a special fondness for cats-her husband, despite being allergic, was the first to bring home a stray, opening the door to many feline rescues over the years. She was also a member of the Columbus Zoo, where she found joy in her love for animals, capturing countless photos of her favorites.
A private person at heart, Karen's love language was simply "being there"-she treasured spending quiet time with family and friends.. She had a remarkable memory for dates and details and amassed a beloved collection of dolls, including American Girl dolls, Barbies, and more. Her co-workers became dear friends, and they enjoyed outings and theater together.
Karen is survived by her loving husband, Geoffrey Fischer; her daughter, Katherine Fischer, and son, Matthew Fischer all of Mansfield and all of whom loved her dearly and were instrumental in her care; her younger brothers, Donald (Barbara) Roman of Hilliard, Ohio, and Robert Roman of Mansfield; her brothers-in-law, Robert (Kathy) Fischer of Dublin, Ohio, and Daniel (Laura) Fischer of Mansfield; as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and feline companions.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Felix and Katherine Roman, and her in-laws, Glenn and Lois Fischer.