Barbara J (Blee) Karnes

Barbara J. (Blee) Karnes, 82, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2024.  Born on March 13, 1942 in Danville, Pennsylvania, Barbara was the daughter of the late Robert and Helen (Sceski) Blee.  She is survived by two siblings Helen Ann Greenly (Richard) and Robert Blee (Phyliss).

Barbara attended school in Danville, Pennsylvania graduating from St. Cyril Academy in 1959.  She became a licensed practical nurse in 1972.  Barbara retired from Danville State Hospital in 1998 after twenty-five years working as a psychiatric attendant. 

Barbara married Charles (Chas) Karnes in 1959 and celebrated forty-eight years of marriage prior to his passing in 2008.  A son Charles II (Chuck) passed away in 2006.  Barbara is survived by two children: Colleen Barndt (Scott) and Michael Karnes (Denise).  She was a beloved “Mimi” to five grandchildren: Brandy Szever (Scott), Briana Gebhart (Ben), Scott Barndt (Megan), Morgan Tom (Aaron), and Michaela Smith (Joshua) as well as eight great-grandchildren: Chloe, Wesley, Leo, Oliver, Luka, Beckham, Asher, and Koda.

In her younger years Barbara enjoyed trailer camping with her family and attending sporting events of her children and grandchildren.  Family was always the love of her and her husband’s lives.  She enjoyed dining out monthly with the “Luncheon Ladies” who considered themselves local food critics.  She enjoyed puzzles of all kinds, sewing, watching her favorite game shows, and playing bingo.    

As per her wishes there will be no viewing or service but rather the family is to celebrate her life at a dinner in her honor.  For those interested, donations in her memory can be made to Mason’s Voice Inc., an organization committed to raising awareness about spina bifida, particularly focusing on the diagnosis in utero.  You can contribute online at https://www.nfkingofthebeach.com/our-story/ or by mail at 11747 Greenland Oaks Drive, Jacksonville, Florida 32258

Family and friends may send online condolences to bunnellfuneralhome.com. The Rodger T. Bunnell Funeral Home, Bloomsburg is handling arrangements.

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