Romaine Marie Karnish, 82, of Lansford, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 9, 2026, at St. Luke’s Miners Memorial Campus in Coaldale, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born October 9, 1943, in Coaldale, she was the daughter of the late John and Rose Marie (Rowan) Drosdak. A 1961 graduate of Marian Catholic High School, Romaine carried throughout her life a quiet strength, kindness, and deep faith that were evident in the way she cared for her family and others.

She was the loving wife of the late Sylvester J. “Slim” Karnish, who preceded her in death in 2011. Together they built a life centered on love and family. Their marriage reflected a deep and abiding love for one another and a shared devotion to raising and supporting their sons and grandchildren.

Romaine worked for many years in local garment factories before later serving as a pharmacy technician at Rite Aid in Lansford. In that role, she became a familiar presence to countless customers, known for her gentle demeanor, patience, and genuine care for others.

Above all else, Romaine’s greatest joy was her family. She was a loving and proud mother to Glen, husband of Jennifer Karnish of Lansford, and Gary, husband of Kristen Karnish of Lake Hauto. Her four grandchildren were her greatest source of joy: Ryan (fiancé of Nina Furfaro) of New York; Austin (fiancé of Emma Timmons) of Pottstown; Matthew (fiancé of Amanda Robotham) of Omaha, Nebraska; and Brenna (companion of Wyatt Clements) of East Stroudsburg. She rarely missed a sporting event, school function, or milestone and celebrated each accomplishment with genuine pride and joy.

Romaine was preceded in death by her brothers, John “Ron” Drosdak and Robert Drosdak, and by her sister, Joan Bonner. She is survived by her sisters-in-law, Mary, widow of John “Ron” Drosdak, and Carol, widow of Robert Drosdak.

Romaine found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. She enjoyed reading, playing games on her iPad, and faithfully watching her favorite soap opera, General Hospital. In her youth, she was an accomplished track and field athlete. She also enjoyed the companionship of her toy poodle, Biscuit.

She was a member of St. John XXIII Parish in Tamaqua, and her Catholic faith remained an important part of her life.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, February 14, at 11:00 AM at St. John XXIII Parish, 307 Pine Street, Tamaqua. Calling hours will be held from 9:00 to 10:30 AM at the E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home, 655 East Broad Street, Tamaqua. Interment will follow at Sky View Memorial Park in Hometown.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Luke’s Miners Memorial Campus Rehabilitation and Nursing Facility, in care of the funeral home, 655 East Broad Street, Tamaqua, PA 18252. 

She will be deeply missed by her family and friends and remembered most for her love of family.

The family encourages online condolences and fond memories to be shared at www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home & Cremation Services.