Karen Ann Elwell

Karen Ann Elwell of Manchester, NH, was born in Lawrence, Massachusetts on May 8, 1965, and raised by Therese and Philip Arsenault of Lawrence, MA, both deceased. Karen sadly left us on January 7th, 2025. Karen’s passion encompassed all aspects of life, from her unmatched ability to craft and create, to her love for celebrating life to the fullest with her family and her friends. Her sense of adventure was bold and courageous. She fought with valiant grace and beauty to be here with all of us. She was never short of a good story. Her laugh was contagious. Her kindness and sense of humor were larger than life. She was a devoted mother and Mammie to her grandchildren.

Karen’s love of reading and writing began at an early age. She continued to write and would always have a book and Bible with her.

Tulley BMW in Manchester is her most recent employer where she worked as a receptionist. She would say she worked with some of the kindest people. Her co-workers loved her like family and made sure she knew it. Their kindness touched her deeply, especially in the end.

Karen also worked many years as an EMT and Dispatcher in Lawrence, MA and Manchester, NH, most recently Manchester Fire Department in New Hampshire.

Karen Cherished Time with her 3 grandchildren, Theresa, Tyler and Timothy. Her little lovies made her heart melt.

Her rescue cats Jack and Jill were her companions until they crossed the rainbow bridge in summer of 2024.

Karen dearly loved to laugh and made sure others did too.

She attended One Church in Manchester, NH for many years. She had a community of friends at Monday night Bible Study. 

Every obstacle she faced she embraced and fought until it was conquered. She was a fierce protector of her family and friends.

She was known for her quick wit and infectious smile. She never forgot a kindness or blessing that came her way.

Karen is survived by Son Jonathan Gagne and his wife Jessica Gagne of Haverhill, MA. Lindsay Bamford of Methuen, MA. Son Nicholas Elwell of Boston, MA. Son Liam Elwell of Kingston, NH. Brother Joseph Arsenault and his wife Donna of California. Biological Mother Carol Peavey of Melrose, MA. Brother James Hoffman and his wife Kim of Derry, NH. Grandchildren Theresa, Tyler, and Timothy Gagne of Haverhill, MA. Nephew Jake Hoffman of Derry, NH. Close cousins Deborah Cabral, Paula Hogan and Christine Flaherty, Donna Garcia. Jeffrey Brown and his wife Dierdra. Her dear friend Judi Munroe who has been her friend since childhood. Many other close cousins and friends.

She was predeceased by Mother Therese Gosselin- Arsenault, father Philip Joseph Arsenault. Grandparents Beatrice Kearns Gosselin and Joseph Gosselin.

Calling Hours will be held on Wednesday January 15th, 2025 from 5pm to 6pm with a Celebration of Life beginning at 6pm at One Church in Manchester, NH 1308 Wellington Rd, Manchester, NH 03104. The Cremation Society of NH is assisting the family with arrangements. To view an online memorial, leave a message of condolence, or for more information please visit www.csnh.com.