Sandisfield — Karen (Dietrich) Campetti, 62, went with the Lord Monday January 12 surrounded by her family and friends.
Born in Albany, N.Y., March 30 1952, daughter of the late Evelyn and James Dietrich of Stockbridge, Mass., Karen was a fiercely independent woman with a sense of humor like no other. It was her ability to find humor in any and every situation that kept her strong and alive. Karen survived a long battle of both brain and lung cancer in the early 90s. She was loved deeply by her daughter and by her friends, and in turn loved her daughter and friends and dogs deeply.
Karen became involved with Olde English Bulldogges in the 80s. At this time, Karen and her former husband began showing the breed throughout the country and world. Through their efforts, the Olde English Bulldogge achieved awards in the conformation ring and spurred the interest of many rare breed fanciers. Due to this success, many breeders became interested in producing this dog. Her interest and passion for the breed lead to major success in the rings. A long-time breeder, her last kennel was named after her love of her favorite dog and companion, Valley Views Nette.
Karen is survived by her daughter, Angela Campetti of West Simsbury, Conn., and her son Dominico (Nick) Campetti of Sandisfield, and her sister, Kathleen (Taylor) Dietrich. She will be missed by many close friends, especially Althea and Rita, as well as her Senior Center contingent and her friends from her kennel club and bulldogge days.
Funeral and memorial Services will be held in the spring at Saint Josephs in Stockbridge, Mass.
Donations on her behalf, may be made to the Claire Teague Senior Center in Great Barrington through FINNERTY & STEVENS FUNERAL HOME, 426 Main St., Great Barrington, MA 01230. Remembrances may be sent to her family through www.finnertyandstevens.com.
