East Otto – With heavy hearts and cherished memories, we announce the passing of Karen Ann (Lathrop) Graser, who left us on July 4, 2025 at the age of 63. Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in celebrating a life beautifully lived and deeply loved.
Karen was born in Salamanca daughter of the late Clarence “Mike” and Eileen (Tonger) Lathrop, where she began a journey that would touch countless lives with her unwavering strength, kindness, and audacious wit.
For 42 wonderful years, Karen was the devoted wife of DJ (Donald) Graser. Together, they built a life filled with adventure and laughter, service to others and to our country, and days spent together in their mutual interests. Karen was a loving mother to Heather Marie Graser, who will forever carry forward her lessons of life and tremendous talents.
Karen found joy in gardening, sewing, crafting, and quilting, in particularly attending Quilt Camp in Cherry Creek for many years. She loved spending time with family and friends, especially her beloved nieces and nephews. She had a special gift for connecting with others, bringing life and laughter to every occasion she attended and to every room she entered. She always had a warm smile, helping hands, and words of wisdom to share in every situation, making those around her feel welcome and connected. Karen was also a member of the East Otto Town Board and enjoyed her many nights of bowling league and shooting pool in leagues with DJ.
To know Karen, was to love her. Those who knew Karen will remember the life lessons she taught and how she made them feel. Her legacy will forever live on in the hearts and lives of her family and friends.
Besides her loving husband and daughter, Karen is survived by two brothers; Edward Lathrop of Portville and Eric (Elizabeth) Lathrop of Navasota, TX. Also surviving is a sister, Lyneen Thompson of Philadelphia, PA, and a brother-in-law, Wayne Tinsley of Navasota, TX, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Besides her parents, Karen is predeceased by a brother, Eugene Lathrop and a sister, Sharon Tinsley.
Friends may call on Sunday, July 13, 2025 from 1-4 pm from Mentley Funeral Home Inc., 411 Rock City St. in Little Valley.
A celebration of Karen’s life will be held immediately following at 4 pm from the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the East Otto Vol. Fire Dept.
Rest in peace, dear Karen. Your love remains with us always.
