Karen Witmer-Gow, 78, passed away on Thursday, July 24, 2025 in St. Louis, Missouri. Born March 30, 1947 in Jamestown, New York, she is the daughter of the late Robert and Elizabeth Witmer of Niagara Falls, New York. Raised in The Falls, she earned degrees from the State University of New York at Geneseo and Nazareth University in Rochester, New York. Her career as a teacher of art started in Ontario County, NY and continued at the St. Louis Art Museum. Her second career was as a successful novelist, publishing ten novels, both historical and contemporary.

She is survived by her husband of forty-eight years, Thomas Gow. Also, her two brothers, Ken Witmer (Carol) and Keith Witmer (Renee). She was very close to her sister-in-law, Renee, and her two nieces, Courtney Smart (Trevor) and Jacqualyn Hayes (Colin). Her grandniece, Haley Smart, was her special delight. Her husband's sister, Catherine Austin, and her nephew, Peter Gow (Becky) were also very important to her. There are many friends and colleagues who will also miss her.

Her family is also very grateful to her many caregivers.

In lieu of flowers please consider donations to the Alzheimer's Association.

Graveside service Wed., July 30, 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul Churchyard, 7600 S. Rock Hill Rd. St. Louis MO 63123