Karen M. Stritsman Loss died after a two-year battle with cancer on April 8, 2009.  Her dearest and best friend, Jo-Ann Minahan McCann (from '63), wrote about Karen, "Just last week I was with her and we were looking at the Class Creator 1963 alumni website and we went down memory lane for the last time.  I will miss her."

From the Albany Times Union, April 13, 2009: 

TROY - Karen M. Loss, age 63, of Troy, passed away at her home surrounded by her loving family on Wednesday, April 8, 2009. Karen was born in Troy and was a lifelong resident of the city. Mrs. Loss worked for over 30 years and retired from the New York State Office of Parks and Recreation Historic Preservation. She was a loving wife and mother who enjoyed spending time and cooking for her family. She always had a way to put her girls first. Daughter of the late Edward and Mary Stritsman. Wife of Richard M. Loss. Mother of Jodi Loss, Mandi Loss and Kaelin Loss. Also survived by her aunt, Irene Green and cousins, Holly Green and Robin Benak; special friend of Jo-Ann McCann, Michele Kramek, Mary Anne Ryan, Joan Bargovic, Linda Gulli and many others. A special thanks to the Minahan and Skiba families. Funeral from the W.J. Lyons Jr. Funeral Home, 1700 Washington Avenue, Rensselaer Monday morning at 8:00 and 10:00 at St. Joseph's Church, Third Street, Troy where the Liturgy of Christian Death and Burial will be offered. Interment will be in St. Joseph's Cemetery, Troy. Contributions in her memory may be made to the St. Joseph's Food Pantry, 416 Third Street, Troy, NY 12180. Condolence page at wjlyonsfuneralhome.com.