Karen L. Baker

Friends will be received at the funeral home on Wednesday October 7th from 4-6 PM.

A memorial service will be held at 6 PM.

Karen L. Baker, 81, lifelong resident of Gardiner passed away unexpectedly Tuesday September 29, 2026 at home. She was born August 29, 1945 a daughter of the late Alfred and Lillian Stokes.

A graduate of New Paltz High School, Karen went on to graduate from the Vassar School of Nursing.She married Lawrence L. Baker April 5, 1969 at the Reformed Church of Gardiner. She was employed as a registered nurse with the New York State Department of Corrections, mainly at Walkill Correctional Facility for many years, where she served as the director of nursing, ultimately retiring. She was a lifelong Yankee fan, and an avid dog lover, she loved spending time with her family and beloved dog Jack.

Surviving is her daughter Lauren Castiglione and her husband Anthony, her granddaughter who was the love of her life and affectionately called her "Boo-Boo", Aubrey Castiglione, a niece Tina Stokes, sister in law Roberta Stokes, step daughters Penny Baker and her husband Stephen Locke, Vicki Carleton and her husband Phil, and their many children and grandchildren.

In addition to her parents she was predeceased by her husband Lawrence L. Baker, brother Alfred Stokes III, and step children Carrie Baker and Lawrence L. Baker, Jr.

Expressions of sympathy in lieu of flowers may be made in the form of contributions to Take Me Home Pet Rescue-PO Box 490 Milton, NY 12547.