Karin M. Ash

Karin Ash, born Karin Miller on September 30, 1950, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2026, at the age of 75.

Born in Springfield, Massachusetts, Karin spent her childhood in Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Vermont. She later attended the University of Vermont, where she studied physical therapy, a path that led to a long and meaningful career caring for others. She was deeply valued by her patients not only for her skill and expertise, but also for the genuine compassion and steady kindness she brought to her work.

Karin shared a rare and deeply meaningful connection with her husband, Mark Ash. Together for forty-six years, theirs was a relationship many admired - a true partnership built on friendship, loyalty, and an unshakable bond. They were each other’s closest family and constant companion, inseparable in a way that quietly inspired those around them. Simply put, they were all each other ever needed.

Together, Karin and Mark shared a deep appreciation for the arts, along with an impressive collection and knowledge of music and film across all genres. In earlier years, they enjoyed traveling, and Karin especially loved the quiet pull of the East Coast beaches. She was also a true foodie who loved cooking with Mark and savoring good meals wherever they went. A wonderful cook herself, she was often the one counted on to host the perfect family Thanksgiving for many years.

Karin lived with a distinct sense of individuality and creativity. She was often seen with brightly colored hair and perfectly painted nails - small but unmistakable expressions of her personality. She loved color in all forms, from her home décor to her collection of gems, stones, and vintage jewelry. She took great pride in her eclectic and thoughtfully curated home in Lake Luzerne, which included an elaborate greenhouse she lovingly maintained.

With humor and love, Karin was known by her family for her holiday tradition of choosing the same gift for each adult - usually something unexpected, slightly puzzling, and not always met with immediate enthusiasm. Somehow, those gifts had a way of becoming some of the most useful and beloved items over time. Her family will miss the yearly anticipation, speculation, and inevitable realization that Karin had, once again, been right all along.

She was predeceased by her parents, Lillian and William “Bill” Miller, whom she adored.

Karin is survived by her devoted husband, Mark Ash; her sister, Janis Miller; her niece, Cayla (Jeff) McGurn, and their children, Pierson and Berkley; and her niece, Meagan (Brian) Ohler, and their daughter, Saylor.

A private person by nature, Karin lived life on her own terms, surrounded by the things - and the person - she loved most. She will be remembered for her originality, quiet strength, and the deep, enduring love she shared with Mark.

In keeping with her wishes, there will be no services.