It is with sadness that we announce Karen’s peaceful passing after a lengthy battle with cancer. Karen was born and raised in Fort William/Thunder Bay and continued to live in the home her father built on Vickers St.
Karen’s entire career was in retail management from Jewellery Manager at Consumer’s Distributing to various supervisor and manager roles with Winners, Dollarama and Home Depot. Karen took great pride in her work and more importantly made close and lasting friendships with many of her coworkers.
Karen had a passion for baking, and her signature pineapple delight was always in demand. This past Christmas, Karen was determined to carry on her tradition of gifting Christmas baking trays for her friends, giving away sixteen large trays.
She also had a love for trips to the casino with friends, where she enjoyed playing the slots. Her trips to Vegas with her aunt and cousin were some of her best vacations.
But her greatest love was her beloved Shilo, a rescue dog Karen was “tricked” into meeting and where she fell hopelessly in love. Anyone who knew Karen knew of Shilo, her shining light in some of her darkest days as she fought so hard against her illness.
Karen is survived by her brothers Kenny and Rick, her sister Michelle and all of their families. Karen looked forward to her weekend visits from her brother Rick and her Wednesday dinners with her great nephew Lincoln, both bringing a smile and always leaving Karen with a funny story to tell.
She is also missed dearly by her close circle of friends, Allison, Diane, Wanda, Lois and Carol Ann, who have been with her as her illness progressed, offering company, love and support.
Karen had a close and loving bond with her nephew John, who she loved deeply and trusted fully. There was never a “Johnny do list” that went unfinished. Recently she was able to spend time with her sister Michelle which brought her peace and comfort in her last weeks.
Karen was predeceased by her parents Geraldine (Gerry) and her father Anthony (Tony), and by her brother Derrick.
We wish to thank the community nurses, and PSWs who came to her home, Dr. Anthes, who cared for Karen for the duration of her cancer journey, Dr. DelPaggio for his kindness and hope, and Dr. Simpson whose compassion and warmth brought Karen so much comfort.
As per Karen’s wishes, there will be no service. Cremation has taken place and a private burial will take place in the spring.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Karen’s memory can be made to Northern Reach Rescue Network or a charity of your choice.
