Karla Koles, Longtime Arhu Staff, Dies At 63

Karla worked at UMD for 41 years and in ARHU for last 14.

Photography By: Jennifer Zachmann

The College of Arts and Humanities wishes to extend our sympathies to the family, friends and coworkers of Karla Koles. Koles, 63, died at her home in Bowie on Tuesday. She died in the company of her husband, Jose Luis Galindo; her sister, Peggy Gibson and her father, Karl Koles.

Of the 41 years that Koles worked on campus at the University of Maryland, she spent the last 14 as coordinator in the College of Arts and Humanities. She will be remembered for her cheerful demeanor, her fondness for animals and her sincere attention to all who crossed her path.

“ARHU was blessed to have her for the past 14 years and her good nature and genuine concern for others will be sorely missed,” ARHU Assistant Dean for Finance and Administration Julie O. Wright said. “I personally had the pleasure of working with Karla for the past seven years and she made me smile every day.”

A funeral service is scheduled, at 10 a.m. Saturday at University Memorial Chapel, 7600 Baltimore Ave., in College Park. Memorial contributions may be made in Karla’s name to the Hospice of the Chesapeake, 90 Ritchie Hwy., Pasadena, MD 21122.