Karen R. Kroker

WORCESTER: Karen R. Kroker, 46, of Hamilton St. in Dorchester, formerly of Constitution Ave. in Worcester, died Wednesday, December 5, 2007, at St. Joseph's Home in Dorchester, after an illness. She leaves 3 daughters, Patricia J. Tolson, Kerah M. Tolson, both of Columbus, Ohio, and Kali Y. Tolson of Worcester; her brother, Richard P. Welch of Worcester; 2 grandchildren, Kaylah M. Mitchell and William J. "Joey" Murphy, II, both of Columbus; 2 cousins, Donna Weldon of Arkansas and Jill Weldon of Worcester; her companion, Murrell "Mack" Hardman of Dorchester; and her longtime friend, Joseph Tolson of Worcester. She was born in Worcester, daughter of the late Donovan E. and Joan E. (Weldon) Kroker, and was a graduate of Fanning Trade High School. She lived here until moving to Boston several years ago. Karen worked for several years as a nurse's aide at St. Mary Health Care Center. She had also been a volunteer at the Henry Lee Willis Center. She enjoyed cooking, crochet, crossword puzzles and playing bingo. A CALLING HOUR will be held from 6 to 7 p. m. on Saturday, Dec. 8, in KELLY FUNERAL HOME, 154 Lincoln St. , immediately followed by a FUNERAL SERVICE at 7 p. m. in the funeral home. After cremation, burial will be at the convenience of the family. Directions and condolence book available at www. kellyfuneralhome. com