Mifflinburg Educator Karen Fritz Remembered for Community Service

Karen Marie Fritz of 119 S. Fifth St., Mifflinburg, died at 9:36 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, at WellSpan Evangelical Hospital in Lewisburg. She was 83. Born April 6, 1942, in New Martinsville, West Virginia, Fritz built a life centered on education, civic preservation, and community philanthropy.

Fritz earned a bachelor’s degree from West Liberty University and a master’s degree from the University of Arizona. She taught elementary school for 39 years across Ohio, Arizona, and within the Mifflinburg Area School District, shaping generations of local students. Her long tenure in the classroom and her interest in geology and natural science education—teaching about rocks and geology to students and grandchildren—contributed to school programming and hands-on learning opportunities in the district.

Beyond the classroom, Fritz was active in Preservation Mifflinburg, Inc., and served on the Mifflinburg Christkindl Market Committee, roles that helped sustain local cultural events and historic preservation efforts. Her volunteer work reinforced community engagement around downtown Mifflinburg and supported the seasonal market that draws residents and visitors alike, strengthening the borough’s civic life and small-business ecosystem.

Fritz enjoyed travel and philanthropy and spent considerable time with her grandchildren. She is survived by her husband, Dennis I. Fritz; one son and daughter-in-law; two grandchildren; and siblings. Visitation is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 12, at First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mifflinburg, followed by funeral services and burial in Mifflinburg Cemetery. Arrangements are being handled by Roupp Funeral Home.

Those wishing to make memorial gifts are asked to consider the Central PA Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, or the American Indian College Fund. For the local community, Fritz’s passing marks the loss of a dedicated educator and volunteer whose decades of service helped sustain school programs and civic traditions. Her work with preservation and event committees will be felt by residents who benefit from Mifflinburg’s historic character and community gatherings that she helped support.