Karene Telesca

Karene Telesca was born in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, in November of 1958, into a proud Greek Orthodox family. She was the beloved daughter of Sophie Marques and Nicholas Facaris, and the older sister to Marianne Facaris. Karene’s formative years were spent in the close-knit community of Aliquippa, where her vibrant spirit began to shine.

As a young woman, Karene moved to Rhode Island, where she built lifelong friendships and started her most important role—motherhood—when she gave birth to her daughter, Mariah. In the late 1990s, Karene and Mariah relocated to Florida, where fate would lead her to the love of her life. Working as a bartender at Atlantic Street Station in Delray Beach, she met Mark, the bass player who played there regularly. Their connection was instant and deep. They fell in love, married, and Mark soon adopted Mariah, completing the beautiful family they would become.

Karene and Mark shared the kind of love that most people only dream about. Their bond was unbreakable, filled with music, laughter, mutual respect, and an unwavering devotion to each other. Together, they created a life full of joy, community, and unforgettable memories.

In early 2021, Karene was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer, with the disease having spread to her bones. Despite the pain and hardship, she never let her spirit dim. She faced every challenge with incredible strength, grace, and positivity—never complaining, never losing her radiant smile. Throughout it all, Mark and Mariah stood by her as her devoted caretakers and biggest cheerleaders, with Mark taking on the full-time role of loving caregiver in the most selfless and tender way.

Even in her most difficult days, Karene continued to give—checking in on friends, caring for her ailing mother, and being a steadfast and loving wife and mother. Her resilience was awe-inspiring, and her heart was endlessly generous.

Karene was deeply loved and supported by a wide circle of friends, both old and new, who rallied around her throughout her journey. In her final days, she smiled with peace, knowing she was surrounded by profound love. In the early hours of May 8th, Karene passed away gracefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and inspiration.

She is making heaven brighter now with her Hollywood smile and enormous heart. Karene Telesca will be missed by all who had the joy of knowing her, and her light will continue to shine in our hearts forever.

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