Karen Marks Lemke
July 28, 1948 ~ July 28, 2013
LISBON FALLS - Karen Marks Lemke, educator, author, historian and humanitarian, passed away peacefully, July 28, 2013 with her friends and family by her side. It was her birthday, ending a remarkably full earthly life that began 65 years ago on July 28, 1948. Karen was born in Rockland, the daughter of Maine Legendary Trooper "Captain Eddie" Marks and wife Geraldine. She was raised in Thomaston and graduated from Georges Valley High School. On August 29, 1970, Karen married William Lemke of Warren, ME. They shared nearly 43 years of life's joys and adversities together. The greatest of those joys was daughter Larissa and grandson Collin. Karen exemplified a loving wife, mother and grandmother. Despite all she did, her family always came first. A beautiful and vivacious woman of many talents, she earned her BA in History with distinction at the University of Maine at Orono in 1970. Karen also performed as "Honey Bear" with a flaming baton at Black Bear football games. In 1972, Karen earned her Master's in Education and, in 1979 her doctorate in Education from the University of Maine. A dedicated and beloved teacher noted for her rapport and empathy with students, Karen first taught adult education in Old Town and in the East Corinth public schools. She became an instructor at the Gorham campus of USM in 1976. Two years later, Karen began her 35 year teaching career at St. Joseph's College in Standish, ME. For 21 years, she was chairperson of the Elementary Education Department; a period when the department achieved its greatest enrollment. She won numerous awards for her scholarship and was an outstanding teacher. Karen's commitment to her students never began or ended with their classroom experience. Her education career was only one facet of Karen's accomplishment. She was author of the bestselling Downeast Detective in 1987, based on the extensive interviews with early members of the Maine State Police. Inspired by her father's colorful 50 year career, the book vividly recounted celebrated cases. The sequel, Return of the Downeast Detective was published several years later. Deeply involved the State Police and their history, Karen was made honorary Captain in 2002 by Governor Angus King. Most recently, she was a member of the Maine State Police Scholarship Committee. A longtime free-lance journalist, Karen contributed articles to the Bangor Daily News, Lewiston Journal, Portland Press Herald, Maine Sunday Telegram and Boston Globe, among other publications covering a wide range of topics. They often involved meeting and interviewing personalities like Minoru Genda, operational planner of Pearl Harbor; Admiral Fowler, creator of Disneyland and Disneyworld; Christina Olson of Andrew Wyeth's "Christina's World"; her friend, Margaret Chase Smith; Jim Dougherty; Marilyn Monroe's first husband; and perhaps memorably, Marshall Drew, the last survivor of the Titanic with actual memory of that ship's sinking. Recently, Karen contributed a feature article in the Sunday Telegram on the famous murders on the Isles of Shoals in the 19th Century. Karen's interest in history involved extensive research, more recently at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library, Hyde Park, NY; and always through the byways of her beloved Maine, and was dramatically conveyed in her presentations. Her public speaking on the subject of the Titanic sinking gained national attention. She drew great joy from making human and real, a survivor's experience and how it impacted his life. Because these events meant so much to Karen, her service will be conducted at the site of one of these presentations. Always marked by a strong social conscience, Karen was actively involved in Democratic state politics for many years, serving as a member of the Democratic State Committee and a delegate to the Maine State Democratic Convention in 2008. Her civic service included. Memberships of Alpha Delta Kappa; the Margaret Chase Smith Library and Learning Center board; the Maine Council of Social Studies and the Lisbon Historical Society. She coordinated support for the Belarus Orphans' Project at St. Joseph's College. Karen loved travelling through Maine; going to the out of the way places, feeling their character and uniqueness. She loved the Maine coast, especially Spruce Head and Monhegan Island. She prided herself as being a real Maine Yankee at heart. She avidly sought out church suppers and fairs everywhere, meeting people and always making friends. She loved animals. And most of all, she loved her family. Her love is their greatest legacy. Karen is survived by her husband, Bill Lemke; her daughter, Larissa and partner Martin Menario; and her grandson, Collin Lemke. Karen leaves one aunt and uncle and many other relatives; and countless friends. She is predeceased by her brother Jack of Scottsville, KY. Visiting hours will be held, 5 - 7 pm on Friday, Aug. 2, at Conroy-Tully Crawford Funeral Home, 172 State Street, Portland. A 1 pm service will be held on Saturday, at the Irish Heritage Center, 34 Gray Street, Portland, ME. Interment will be private in Thomaston at a later date. Memorial donations in Karen's memory to the ASPCA, c/o Linda Tiramani, 520 8th Ave, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10018.Online condolences may be expressed below.
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Dearest Larissa, My sincere condolences to you, your father Bill, and your son Collin on the passing of your Beloved mother Karen. She was a wonderful person whom I was privileged to meet while you were my student at WHS. She loved you dearly and appreciated what impact your teachers had on your life. She was very complimentary in that regard. I will keep you in my prayers during this difficult time for you and your family. With much love, Denise Talbot
– Denise Talbot
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during your time of loss and sadness.
– Rev. Raymond C Nolan
My sincerest sympathies to the Lemke family on the passing of Dr. Karen. Though I didn’t have her as a professor, I remember seeing her all around SJC. She always had a smile on her face as well as a warm greeting for all. She touched many students and touched many lives at SJC. She was a very kind and sweet person who’ll be missed. Thoughts and prayers are with you all. God Bless.
– Ted Doucette ’05
To Dr. Lemke’s family and friends, I shall be keeping you all close in my heart and prayers. I was blessed to be one of her students at St. Joseph’s.
– Michelle (Proulx) McIntosh
So very sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
– Shawn, Mandy, Morgan, and Pauline
My heart aches for the passing of this beautiful lady. Karen’s vivacious personality and beauty lit up my classroom every time she entered. I will miss her smile, her laugh and her friendship. She has given us lasting memories and left us with important lessons.
– Deb Luce
Our deepest condolences to the family of Dr. Lemke. She made such an impact on the education of our son Jeff at St. Joseph’s College. Jeff said not only was she one of the best educators I ever had, but was a great friend as well. Thank you so much Dr. Karen Lemke, you will forever be in our hearts.
– Bob and Liz Letellier
I am so sorry. We will miss her. Thinking of you all.
– Peggy Fournier
Bill, Larissa, and Collin, I was shocked to hear of Karen’s passing. You have lost a very lively person in your lives. I am deeply sorry for this loss and know that there is a great void present. Bill and Karen touched my life deeply when I was with the Sisters of Mercy and they were very supportive when I left the Sisters of Mercy. You were both caring people to the students at St, Joseph’s College. I remember Larissa growing up with the St. Joe’s family around her. Cherish the memories. Keep them close to your heart. May God’s love and peace surround you during this difficult time. Peace, Linda Roy ’93
– Linda Roy ’93
Bill: I join with you in your grief.Your name brought back many memories. Your Old Neighbor – Wes
– Rev. Wesley Woodman
Karen’s talk on Titanic at the Maine Irish Heritage Center was simply remarkable – a huge success and a wonderful learning experience for all who attended. It was such a pleasure to work with her to organize and present it; she was both a learned, passionate and personable lecturer and a gracious, charming person. It was a privilege to meet her. I am so very sorry for your loss.
– Ellen D. Murphy
If we all had 65 years as did Karen, I wonder if we would live it as well as she did. I knew her for all the years she taught at St. Josephs and she made it a happy place for us all. We will miss her terribly and our hearts ache for Bill and the family. Her humor will be a big loss.. I just wonder about the jokes she would have told us about dying on her birthday. I can hear her say, wouldn’t you know!!
– Anne Golubisky
Karen and I were good friends growing up in Thomaston. It’s the little things I remember best; playing paper dolls together, playing with her pet raccoon, Rikki Tikki Tavi, being a hostess in costume at the Montpelier mansion with her, competing in one act plays at Georges Valley High School (she won). Having been away from Maine for 47 years and planning to move back next year I was hoping to locate her and do some fun catching up. I am so sad that it will not happen. Karen was an inspiration to me and I will always remember her. I am so sorry for your great loss. From what I have read here she has left an enormous legacy…..but I always knew she would. Bless you all.
– Darlene Burge Herbert
We all felt such shock and sadness at Karen’s death. Such a vibrant lady will be greatly missed. Condolences to Bill and her family.
– Pat Weeks
Dr. Lemke was an amazing teacher and person. She always made life so bright. She will be greatly missed by myself and many other students who’s lives she empowered. RIP Dr. Lemke
– Shelley Maxfield ’05
My deepest sympathy to the family of Dr. Karen Lemme. She was an amazing individual. I have fond memories of her as my professor at St. Joe’s. She had a true love for teaching and her students. She will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
– Diane Blais Whalen
Larissa, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Sincerely, Emily
– Emily Moran
I wish to offer my condolences to the family. I grew up with Karen in Thomaston and know Bill and his family. She was a great classmate and friend and I remember her as a classy and bright woman. My wishes that your hearts will be filled with joy not sorry over her passing. My prayers are with you!
– Gary Upham
My deepest sympathies go out to all of you at this most difficult time. I was saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Lemke, and harken back to the fond memories of my years at St. Joseph’s College in her classes. She was an amazing professor and a radiant woman. Her love of teaching and learning, as well as her sense of humor had a positive impact on all who knew her. Her legacy will carry on throughout the field of education through her former students. May you find comfort in knowing how much she touched my life and career. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
– Mary Cutter-Hogan ’90
Karen was a beautiful person everyone will miss her She will be in our hearts forever God Bless her.
– patricia weaver
Our condolences to the Lemke family in this difficult time. May God bless you and help you during this time of sorrow. You are in our prayers.
– William Villineau ’89
I was shocked and saddened to hear of Dr. Lemke’s passing. Great sympathy goes out to her family, friends, and the St Joe’s community as we all grieve our loss. To Bill, Larissa and Colin: May God hold you in the palm of His hand and comfort you.
– Kristin (Lemieux) Borntrager ’91
I was stunned to see the sad news that Dr. Lemke had passed. It immediately brought me back to the many education courses at SJC and the meetings I had with Dr. Lemke regarding my future as a teacher. She was an inspiring mentor who was genuine and nurturing and was truly invested in each and every student’s success…at least that’s how she always made you feel – important, special and like family…and always with a big smile on her face! Dr. Lemke was one of a kind and will be missed dearly. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends during this time and may her spirit carry on in all the lives she has touched.
– Helene Liaci SJC ’05
Deepest sympathies. Karen was an amazing teacher and mentor, and she will be greatly missed.
– Amanda
Karen I were childhood friends classmates. I remember her as energetic, engaging and always smiling. She was a truely wonderfull person. To Bill and family: I know it’s hard right now but you are very fortunite to have such special memories that will sustain you over time. My sincere sympathy
– Ron Smalley
I was so terribly saddened to hear of Karen’s passing – a vibrant and sensitive mentor and friend. As a new faculty member at St. Joseph’s in 1992 I often clung to her vision, her wit, her passion for what education could be, should be. I will never forget her laugh, or the way she’d pull me aside in the hall to tell me a hilarious story or historical nugget. She was so supportive, always hopeful, but never afraid to speak the truth or fight for what was right – it was the way in which she would carry the message that was inimitable. Frank and diplomatic, and always with a smile and unmatched style. I can’t imagine your loss – I think I knew Larissa’s name before I knew most of my students’ names. And if knowing her were not enough, I have Karen, and you, Bill, to thank for my marriage – suffice to say I was running a political errand for you when I first met my husband. Thinking of you all during this awful time, but also remembering the gift she was to all of us. -Lynn Davey
– Lynn Davey
Bill, Larissa and Collin. I am so very sorry to hear of Karen’s death. I know how much she meant to you all. She was a wonderful person who left you much too soon. Her legacy of love will sustain you and your memories of her will always remain in your hearts. She is a big part of who you are and her spirit will remain with you. This world needs more people like her. With sincere sympathies to you all. Love, Rainey
– Rainey Williams
I read, with sadness, of the passing of Dr. Lemke. She was a wonderful mentor, always ready with a laugh and a smile. I remember on graduation day, she gave me a hug and jumped up and down with me saying I’m so proud of you, you already have a job! I stayed with Elementary Education because of her, and have thought of her often since graduation day. You will be missed Karen. My thoughts and condolences to Karen’s family during this time of loss. God Bless.
– Suzanne (Toto) ’95 & Jonathan Giles ’96
Mr. Lemke and family, I first met your wife this year at the education pinning ceremony at St. Joseph’s college. Karen came up to me and introduced herself and said I have just been waiting to meet you . We talked and talked and talked. She also made it a point to be sure to speak with my husband and I at the last few St Joes events of the year. My daughter always spoke so highly of Dr. Lemke and what they did in class and conversations that were had. I knew after my first introduction with her why my daughter thought she was so special. I’m so sorry for your loss….the students of St Joes have also lost such a wonderful teacher and mentor. May your memories bring you comfort.
– Wendy Hall
Dear Lemke Family; I was shocked and very saddened to hear of Karen’s passing. What a remarkable woman; one who I am very proud to have known, even just briefly. Her love of family, her passion for education, and her fun sense of humor will be surely missed. My condolences,
– Deb Ludwig
My deepest condolences. Karen was a good friend and colleague and assisted me greatly at the College. I will pray for her and her family. Sincerely, Nick.
– Nick Benfaremo
My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this difficult time. She was a wonderful mentor and teacher.
– Pamela Darling ’92
Dear Dr. Lemke, My condolences to you and your entire family at the loss of your wife. I remember both of you fondly from my time at SJC.
– Cathy Fearing 1985
So sorry. My daughter, Erica, was under her advisement at St Joseph’s. She helped Erica on a level much higher than courses, etc. She gave her a good outlook on life during some difficult times. God Bless! Sven Erica
– Sven and Erica Olsson
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends, colleagues, etc. of Dr. Karen Lemke. She will definitely be missed. I enjoyed all of her classes and she was very fun to be around.
– Jeremy Allen
To Karen’s family, my condolences for your loss. I remember Karen from many years ago at St. Joseph’s College. Always a dynamic person, she was a kind person as well. I remember her fondly. Warmly, DeAnn Daigle
– DeAnn Daigle
Karen’s smiling face and full-body laughter will remain with her loving family, friends, and colleagues at Saint Joseph’s College as long as we live. We will miss her deeply and always be grateful that she was there to enrich our days in all her unique and playful ways.
– Mike Connolly
Bill and Larissa I just can’t believe that you have lost such a wonderful person. I will always remember how Karen took a chance on an older student like me and helped her with a second career. She was so giving and supportive I will always keep her in my heart.
– Rosanne Botto 78 & 91
My deepest condolences to the Lemke family. As an alumnus of St. Joseph’s College (’84) and an educator, I am proud to say that Karen and Bill Lemke’s influence on me contributed to my decision to become a teacher. I enjoyed Karen’s class and only wish that I could be half the educator that she was. Although she did not know it, I chose to obtain my doctorate in education because I hoped that someday I could help students like she helped me. God Bless.
– Pam LaValley-Le
As president of the Maine State Troopers Foundation, I want to send our deepest condolences to the Lemke Family. Karen knew the history of the Maine State Police as well as any member of the department and she will be sorely missed, not only as a source of information, but also as a dear friend. Our personal families have been intertwined since the early 50’s and no one was looked upon with more respect than Karen’s father, Eddie Marks, a 50 year veteran of the Maine State Police. He certainly had alot to be proud of with a daughter like Karen. She carried his legacy forward with such pride. She will be missed.
– Tr. Mark Nickerson (Ret)
Bill, My condolences on the love of your life.I have and wiill always have fond memories of Karen,schallengiing courses and witty humor,She was always ready to share her view of state and local politics which II loved.Karen symbolized what SJC is all about, May God bless you,
– kevinscully
Dear Bill, Larissa, Collin, and Mike: It is with a heavy heart tha I send my condolences to you at this time of great loss in your lives. Those of us who knew Karen well, are very aware of your grief. Family meant everything to her. Karen was one of those special people who come into our lives and make it a fuller and happier one. When you were with her, she let you know how sincerely interested she was in what you had to say and she always was able to put a positive spin on any discussion or issue. Like so many others, I was fortunate to be a colleague of hers at Saint Joseph’s College and consider it a blessing to be among her friends even after my retirement. Every August,she,Alene Staley and I planned a luncheon date in town. It was always a high point in my summer. She will often be in my thoughts and prayers, along with all of you. May she rest in peace.
– Sister Mary Jude, RSM Portland, Me.
Oh, what a spirit and what a wonderful colleague at St. Joseph’s! I will so fondly remember her laugh and how she took time with me as a younger faculty member. My hearts and prayers are with you.
– Michelle Tucci