William Karpen

William L. Karpen, 84, of Reading, passed away August 1, 2009 at 1:30 pm in Mifflin Center. He was the husband of Valeria(Racz)Karpen. Born in Reading, he was the son of the late Lewis and Theresa(Toth)Karpen. Mr. Karpen was employed by Carpenter Technology Corp. in Reading for 35 years. He served various chemical positions, including Manager of Chemical Technology in research and development. He had several U.S. and Canadian patents as well as numerous published articles. He was a lover of antiques and after retiring from CarTech he had an antique business with his wife at antique mall in Adamstown. He was a 1943 graduate of Reading High School and a 1950 graduate of Albright College with a Bachelors Degree in Chemistry. He was a veteran of WWII having served in the U.S. Navy in the European theatre of war. He served as President of the Reading Chemist Club and was also one of the founders of the Reading-Berks Science Fair, in which he served as Exhibit Chairman. Mr. Karpen served on the Technical Advisory Council for Penn State Berks Campus, served as Chairman of the Organization and Extension Committee for the Boy Scouts and was a member of First Presbyterian Church. In addition to his wife, he is survived by a son Dr. Jeffrey W. Karpen of Portland, Oregon. He was preceded in death by his sister Elizabeth Penetar.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Albright College Alumni Association, 13th & Bern Streets, PO Box 15234, Reading, PA 19612-5234 in memory of Mr. William L. Karpen.