Karen (Waldecker) Friedman, born November 14, 1956, passed away on February 13, 2026 at home.
Karen was known for her positive energy, strong work ethic, generosity, and kindness. She spent many years working proudly in the restaurant industry as a server before returning to school in her forties to pursue a career in sonography - a testament to her determination and drive.
She was admired for her resilience as she beat breast cancer 3 times all while being a devoted and full time working mom. She will be remembered as a loving mother, loyal friend, and a person of unwavering strength.
Karen cherished time with her family and friends and loved hosting no matter the occasion. She had a passion for cooking and trying new foods and was most happy when surrounded by loved ones while sharing a new recipe. Karen was also incredibly crafty and had a talent for sewing, creating everything from beautiful drapes to cherished Halloween costumes for her children. She loved the beach, spending many summer days along the shores of Nantasket, Duxbury, and the Cape.
Karen had a life long love for travel from taking many trips to the British Virgin Islands in her 20s, visiting her daughter in Spain, and vacationing in Aruba, Mexico, and the Grand Canyon with her husband Barry.
Karen is survived by her son, Tyler Waldecker; her daughter, Jaime Waldecker and her husband, Michael Shanley; her sister, Marybeth Richmond and her husband, Steve Richmond; her nephews, Tim, Andrew, and Dan; her beloved cousins; the children of her late husband, Michael Friedman and his partner, McKay; Kara Smith and her husband, Jeffrey; and many loving friends.
Karen was preceded in death by her husband, Barry Friedman; her mother, Ann Hurley; and her former husband, Dana Waldecker.
Visiting hours in the Sullivan Funeral Home, 551 Washington St. Rte. 53, Hanover, on Sunday, February 22nd from 3-6pm. A funeral mass will be celebrated at Holy Family Church, 601 Tremont St, Duxbury, on Monday at 10am, followed by a burial at Mayflower Cemetery, 774 Tremont St, Duxbury. A luncheon to celebrate Karen's life will be held at Caffe Tosca, 15 North Street, Hingham.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Expect Miracles Foundation, to support cancer research and provide financial grants for young adult cancer survivors.