Karen (Cancelmo) McFadden

Karen McFadden (nee Cancelmo), age 74, passed away on April 9th, 2025.  She was born on August 1st, 1950, in Bryn Mawr, PA to the late Dr. John B. and Nancy (nee Dalton) Cancelmo.  Devoted mother of Ryan McFadden (Marla) and Kelley McFadden, and loving grandmother of Winnifred McFadden, Dalton McFadden, and Benjamin McFadden.  Born the first of six children, she was the oldest sister to Jay Cancelmo, Nancy Burke (Pat), the late Michael Cancelmo, Mia Cancelmo, and Matthew Cancelmo (Betsy) as well as sister-in-law to Mary Ellen McFadden and Michael McFadden (Robin).  She was a beloved aunt and favorite cousin to so many in her life.

Karen was born and raised in Ardmore and Devon, PA.  A graduate of Notre Dame Academy in Bryn Mawr in 1968, Karen went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in education from West Chester University in 1972.  After graduation, she worked as a teacher in Berwyn at St. Monica’s and Devon Elementary.  Karen married William J. McFadden, Jr. in 1974 and settled in Exton, PA where their children were born and raised.  Karen enjoyed her life in the Exton community and spent many years volunteering as the Rhondda HOA Block Captain as well as assisting in coaching LYA field hockey.  After some time spent away from teaching and working in insurance, Karen returned to Valley Forge Middle School and Lionville Middle School until her retirement. 

Karen and her family and friends enjoyed summers in Cape May, Avalon, and Stone Harbor.  Some of her fondest memories came from decades spent down the Jersey Shore.  Her ability to connect with people, whether family, friend, neighbor, or co-worker, is what she will always be remembered for.  She was selfless, generous, and cared for others.  Loved by all who met her, she was as genuine as it gets.  Karen had a passion for life and always wanted everyone to “have fun”!

Sadly, Karen inherited the genetic neurodegenerative gene that causes Huntington’s Disease.  She battled this disease for many years with a positive attitude and a smile on her face, something that is remarkable given the circumstances.  As cool as it gets right to the very end.  The world needs more people like Karen who continue to shine with positivity no matter what life throws their way.  May she rest in peace.

Relatives and friends are invited to her visitation at 10:00 – 11:25 A.M. Thursday, May 8th, 2025 at Logan Funeral Home, 698 Lincoln Hwy, Exton, PA 19341, followed by her Funeral Service at 11:30 A.M.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to Philly Cure HD, 2815 Edge Hill Road, Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006, or Cancelmo Cousins Fund, 222 Westmoreland St Houston, TX 77006 would be greatly appreciated