Karen Lynn Longo was a widely respected equine veterinarian caring for performance and show horses at racetracks and farms throughout Northeast Ohio. She was a graduate of Wittenberg and Ohio State. As one of the first women in any Veterinary program she was a trailblazer, using her skills, wit, wisdom, and determination to overcome obstacles and to build a successful practice.  She continued to mentor and create opportunities for young women, while using her time and talents in other community and service organizations, most recently as president of the Nordonia Hills Kiwanis. Karen was born in Springfield. She loved and showed horses as a child. Always wanted to be a vet and worked at premier tracks from Florida to New York. She moved to Cleveland 20 years ago. Now centered at Thistledown and Mahoning racetracks and surrounding farms. Karen married 7 years ago. She and husband Bob loved every day together. Diagnosed in 2016 with Ovarian cancer, she lived life on her terms. She continued to actively practice and stay engaged in the community until just weeks before passing at home. She is also survived by her mother Barbara, 3 daughters by marriage, 5 rambunctious grandchildren and her beloved associates Meghan and Danie. Friends may call at THE FERFOLIA FUNERAL HOMES, 356 W. AURORA RD. (OH RTE 82), SAGAMORE HILLS FOR VISITATION THURSDAY 4-8 P.M. OUT OF RESPECT FOR ONE ANOTHER MASKS WILL BE WORN AND SOCIAL DISTANCING OBSERVED. Family and friends are invited to join in watching Karen’s funeral services Friday 12 P.M. where they will be live streamed at http://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/viewer/46947. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her name to The Emergency Assistance Shelter, 9199 Olde 8 Rd suite c, Northfield, OH 44067. Interment Northfield-Macedonia Cemetery.Â
The family did not provide a photo.