Karen was a kindred spirit to my mom.  They were both single moms (at one time before her marriage to Jack), with daughters, and all that is involved with that.  She was a welcome place for my mom to rest, vent, and socialize.  They both LOVED cats.  She was like a second mom to me.  She was there to support and lend an ear.  Oh, so kind and had such a positive demeanor.  I will always remember her sweet and smart way of dealing with me as a teen.  Rest in peace dear Karen.