Karen Gervase

Karen Melinda (Lutz) Gervase, 54, of Lebanon and formerly of New Britain, loving mother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend, passed away Tuesday (Oct. 9, 2012) at Hartford Hospital. Born Sept. 21, 1958 in Urbana, OH, she was a daughter of Herbert Lutz of Tremont City, OH and the late Mary (Zerkel) Lutz. Her love of music and artistic ability was a gift of her parents, that they shared with her sisters as well, and one that she passed on to her sons. She studied music abroad in Hungary and earned her Bachelor of Music in Music Education degree from Wright State University, OH and her Master's degree from Central Connecticut State University in New Britain, CT. Karen shared her love of music with countless students while teaching at Vance Village School in New Britain. She had also served as pianist and music director for St. Francis of Assisi Church in Lebanon. Karen will also be remembered for her sense of humor but most importantly for her devotion to her sons. In addition to her father, she is survived by three sons, Charles, Anthony “A.J.” and Stephen Gervase, all at home; two sisters, Kathy Newman-Gall of Columbus, OH and Stephanie Lutz of Findlay, OH; her former spouse, Anthony and wife, Beth of Lebanon; and numerous extended family members, students, colleagues and friends. Visitation 4 to 7 PM Monday (Oct. 15th) at the Aurora-McCarthy Funeral Home, 167 Old Hartford Road, Colchester. The Funeral Liturgy will be celebrated 11 AM Tuesday directly at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 67 West Town St., Lebanon. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Summer Music Workshop, c/o HALS Academy, 30 Pendelton Road, New Britain 06053. Smith and Sefcik Funeral Home, 135 N. Broad St., Mildofrd, CT, is also assisting with arrangements and services.