I met Karen for the first time in the winter of 2006. She drove down to Montreal to visit her eldest daughter, Vanessa, at university. Karen took myself, Vanessa and my girlfriend Jenn, who was roommates with Vanessa, out to dinner. We had a wonderful time - I'm pretty sure we ate sushi, which Jenn would have insisted on and was always trying to foist on Vanessa (and the rest of us) in those early days. I remember thinking that Karen was relaxed, fun and even a bit giggly. Vanessa and Karen had this very classic, ongoing banter, probably common for a mother and her now-grown daughter, but with a funnier give-and-take, as Vanessa would gently tease Karen for her different hang-ups, and Karen would reply in turn with her own comeback. They went back-and-forth all dinner. The love and respect was clear. 

I met Karen ever so often after that, a few more times while we were still at university, then at Vanessa and Danny's wedding in the fall of 2014 and periodically from then on in Toronto.  

I've known Vanessa ("Dub") for seemingly ever, but came to know Karen's other two daughters, Alynn and Danielle, fairly well too over the years. 

I know Karen was incredibly proud of her three girls. I saw it so clearly on that first night in Montreal. Her girls, along with their own children, have made for a fitting, and beautiful legacy for Karen. I hope Vanessa, Alynn and Danielle find some peace in that. 

I'll be thinking of Karen's girls along with their spouses and children, and everyone else who knew her, at this very difficult time.

Colin Cameron-Vendrig   

Vanessa & Family, 

We are so sorry for your loss. Karen was such a strong woman who displayed incredible courage and fortitude throughout her battle with lupus. She made an impact on all that were lucky enough to know her, and we know that her strength, resilience, and warmth are qualities she's passed onto her three beautiful daughters. 

Thinking of you in the days ahead and we'll be there to honour Karen's life and legacy on Saturday. 

Michael and Alexandra Barber

So sorry for your loss. Karen was a true fighter and an inspiration. We are thinking of you all.

Lots of hugs.

Jim

Karen was a beautiful soul and a truly remarkable woman. I have had the privilege of knowing her since 2005, and have been in awe of her ever since. She had such a fighting spirit and always managed to bring lightness to any situation.

Sending so much love to her beautiful daughters and family. Look forward to celebrating her life together this Saturday.