Karen Elizabeth Hirkala, 71, of Passaic passed away on March 13, 2026. Born and raised in Passaic, where she has been a lifelong resident. She worked as an Aide for Annabell Shimkowitz Senior Center in Passaic until retirement.

Beloved daughter of the late Senator Joseph Hirkala and Josephine (Chorazy) Hirkala. Dear sister of the late Robert Hirkala. Loving niece of Dr. Chester Chorazy and his late wife Dr. Anna Chorazy, and the late Stanley Chorazy and his late wife Rose. Dear cousin of Frank Chorazy, Diane Chorazy-Flanagan and her husband Michael, John Chorazy and his wife Lorraine and their son, William Chorazy, Dr. Paula Ann Chorazy, Dr. Mary Ellen Cuccaro and her husband Edward and their children, Dr. Mia Cuccaro and her wife Dr. Kelsey O'Dowd, Evan Cuccaro and his wife Olivia, and Mark Chorazy, Esq. Karen will be dearly missed by her beloved canine companions, Buddy and AJ.

Visiting Friday, March 20, 2026, from 5-8PM at the Shook Funeral Home, 639 Van Houten Ave., Clifton. Funeral Saturday, March 21, 2026, 7:45AM at the funeral home and 9AM at St. Joseph's RC Church, Passaic. Interment to follow at St. Michael's Cemetery, South Hackensack.