Obituary
Nancy Karen (Stiffler) Demeke, formerly of Hemet, CA, Mesa, AZ, and Northridge, CA, passed away on July 8, 2024.
She was born on November 22, 1941 in Indiana, PA, the daughter of Leila Willivene Stiffler (née Klingensmith) and James Seward Stiffler. She was known most often by her middle name, Karen.
In her 82 years, in various locales, Karen was a member of many churches of different denominations including Methodist, Presbyterian, and Catholic.
Karen attended what was at the time Indiana State Teachers College in Indiana, Pennsylvania as a music major. In the early 1960’s Karen moved from Vandergrift to Los Angeles with her parents. In the 1970’s she was a sales representative for National Cash Register in Los Angeles, CA, after which she developed a career in accounting for many firms in the San Fernando Valley. She enjoyed singing in choirs, researching Klingensmith family genealogy, travel, and reading.
Karen is survived by her daughter Shelly Lynn Demeke-Persico and her husband Tom Persico. Karen was preceded in death by her parents, and by her husband James Scott Demeke.
Interment will be private at Whitesburg Presbyterian Cemetery, Kittanning, PA.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association or Alzheimer’s Association.
Slideshow
Photo Gallery
Karen’s Music
Please enjoy this selection of various musical events from Karen’s tapes from the 1980’s & 1990’s – including Karen’s participation in the LA Valley College Philharmonic Choir.
Donations
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Lewy Body Dementia Association or Alzheimer’s Association


I’m so sorry for your loss. Karen was my neighbor and friend since she moved to Hemet, CA. She will be missed very much. She was funny and had so much to share. I enjoyed her friendship tremendously.
Rest in peace Karen.❤️
I am so sorry for your loss. I remember Karen from Vandergrift high school.