Springwater: Karen passed away suddenly on the morning of March 16, 2024, at the age of 59. She was predeceased by her parents, James & Jean DeGraff. Karen is survived by her husband of 33 years, Lee Sullivan, son, Elijah Sullivan, daughter, Emma Sullivan (future son-in-law Ryan Wolack), sisters, Sharon (David) Houghtaling, Elizabeth Demay, Peg (John) Fleig, brothers, Ron (Phyllis) DeGraff, Eric (Sheryll) DeGraff, Lynn (Lisa) DeGraff, Tom DeGraff, and Paul DeGraff. Karen was born at Thompson Hospital on November 25th, 1964, and became the 9th and final child of the family. She always joked that her parents strived for the perfect child and finally succeeded when she was born.

Karen grew up on the north end of Canadice Lake Road where she lived most of her life before meeting her husband. Karen and Lee first met when they both started working at Southco in Honeoye Falls on Jan 3, 1989 and were later married on August 18, 1990, in the backyard of their first home.

Years later they welcomed their firstborn son, Elijah James in 1995 and a daughter, Emma Jean in 1997. At that point Karen decided to stay home to raise her children and pursue her love of animals further by creating the small farm she had always dreamed of. After a cancer diagnosis in 2002, she moved with her family and farm back to her “old stomping grounds” in Canadice. While raising her family and taking care of the farm she tried to stay active with the school and community as much as she could.

As a Honeoye graduate of the class of ‘82, she was very proud of her time as part of the Honeoye School Board of Education and enjoyed being part of the Honeoye Community Players and U.N.I.F.Y. She recently reconnected with old friends from school and together they formed the friendship circle to keep in touch.

Karen was a kind-hearted person who loved her friends and family dearly. She always put others’ needs above her own and would go out of her way to make someone feel special. Karen had the greatest love for nature. Taking walks, caring for her animals, and even mowing the lawn. As long as she was outside, she was happy. Karen was proud of the fact that she was winning her battle against cancer and unfortunately died of other health complications.

Karen was a loving wife, mother, sister, and friend and although she has left a gaping hole in the lives of those closest to her, she would want everyone to live a full life. Spend time with friends and family, enjoy nature, and don’t forget to say “I love you” to those who matter most.

In keeping with Karen’s wishes, no formal funeral services will take place at this time. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Arrangements were made by the Kevin W. Dougherty Funeral Home, 8624 Main St. Honeoye, NY. To share a memory or a condolence, please visit: www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com