Karen S. Piershalski, 66, of Grand Island, NY, passed away peacefully at her residence on July 1, 2026, while under the compassionate care of Hospice Buffalo surrounded by those she loved. Born in Oakland, CA, she is the daughter of Roy E. and Janice (Diehl) Tilghman.

Karen came to Western New York as a child with her family and graduated from Grand Island High School in 1978. She later earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from the University at Buffalo.

In 1984, Karen married Stephen W. Piershalski at St. Stephen’s R.C. Church in Grand Island, beginning a loving marriage that spanned 42 years.

Karen devoted 40 years of service to M&T Bank in the Trust Department, working primarily with the Business Valuation Group as an Appraiser until her retirement in 2022 as a Junior Vice President. She was known for her professionalism, dedication, and warm spirit.

Karen loved the outdoors and enjoyed kayaking, bike riding, and visiting National Parks with family and friends. Creative and talented, she was skilled on the loom and as a weaver of her cherished baskets. Karen will be remembered for her bubbly personality, fun-loving nature, caring heart, and energetic spirit. Above all, she cherished time spent with her family.

In addition to her loving husband, Stephen, Karen is survived by her parents, Roy and Janice Tilghman; her sons, Justin (Jessica) Piershalski and Jordan (fiancée Kait Rudney) Piershalski; her grandson, Hadrian Piershalski; her sister, Jaqueline Tilghman; her brother, Roy (Melanie) Tilghman; her brothers‑in‑law, Joseph (Sharon) Piershalski and John (Gail) Piershalski; her sister‑in‑law, Marie (Gary) Nashwinter; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 7 from 3 – 7 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY 14304. Karen’s Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 AM on Wednesday, July 8 at St. Stephen’s R.C. Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island, NY 14072. Everyone please assemble at church. Interment will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Hospice Buffalo (www.hospicebuffalo.org) or Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center (www.roswellpark.org). Online condolences may be shared at mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com.